Disruptive

 

Kids crunch and slide and skiff on snow,

Scream and squawk and slip below

Escarpment's crust.

 

I listen for the blue jay's cry,

Woodpecker's scarlet I squint to spy,

But they unconsciously disrupt.

 

I raise my specs toward limb and branch,

"Caw" and powdery dust, evidence,

But it's gone with a squeal from behind.

 

I spin around, retreat in loss.

Forthcoming days birds and I will cross 

Quiet paths, when children mind.

 

Disappointed in my lack of treasure,

But by what standard had I measured

That which brings delight?

 

With laughter and breathless wonder

Children clomp heavy to their mother,

Who embraces richest prize!

 

By: Heather Vanderkruk

 

I don't know what I'm thinking when I take those kiddos birding with me. What I do know is that at the end of every noisy, frustrating, bird-less hike, I learn what my real prize is... them :)