Lucia
It was a chilly night
when first we met
and took a stroll
that ended with a pet.
Your name is Lucia
and your ears flopped
and the more we walked,
your walk became a hop.
They warned of your limp
and that was alright
as I limped along with you
on that frigid night.
We arrived back at base
and you sat so calm and nice
until I bent down
and we finally broke the ice.
A smile emerged
and you kissed my face;
dog slobber covered
every uncovered space.
My only child at home
would never allow you to be
but from that moment on,
you’d always be a part of me.
Autumn Siders 