Product of an Earlier Time

We were only kids

heading out to fulfill a dream –

our first tree 

snow boot tracks erasing

the smooth of fallen

snow as we trudged single-file

noting shape and height

of spruce silhouettes

among a field of various choices.

It was a cold day, searching

for the perfect shape

to adorn our living room

apartment at the top of iron steps

and railing that could bruise

wayward branches –

so we sought out slim features

until we found such a one.

Home-trip meant strained muscles

fingers freezing as we dragged

our prize -- creating

a plowed path. Journey ended

up metal stairs shedding

bits of branches -- 

natural offerings this time of year.