It’s hardly ever cold here
But when it is I’m reminded of home
How the leaves change to bright red, orange and yellow
And how the sun retreats behind dark lavender snow clouds
I miss the smell of the fresh mountain air
And the crunch of dried leaves beneath my feet
As I walk by shops on the brick streets of the outdoor mall
I miss the earthy smell of the apple orchard
And the warmth of cider in my cold hands
As we gather the ingredients for holiday recipes
I miss the perched pumpkin patch
At the top of the hill overlooking the city
Like a painting laid out before me
I miss jumping into a pile of raked leaves
And my little brother’s bright smile
I miss the smell of the chimney smoke
And the splinters I’d get from chopping wood
I miss the cold air whipping my cheeks bright pink
And the bright glow of the bonfire we’d sit around
And the sweet smell of perfectly charred marshmallows
It’s hardly ever cold here
But when it is, I’m homesick