Staci Lynn Bell, Escape

Staci Lynn Bell
ESCAPE

Taking in moist salt air,
Blue Mountain Jamaican coffee steaming in my mug,
I sit in my braided hammock swing,
a German Shepherd on either side.

Just about the time the tropical sun
burns off morning mist, I hear
the swinging door that leads from kitchen to porch,
my husband, a tray of pineapple and yogurt.

No shoes, tank top, colorful Hawaiian shorts,
I stroll with the dogs down to the water.
Mini rivers of the gulf find their way
to meet me, tease me with their warmth.

The dogs are already frolicking with dolphins.
I join them and become part of the scenery.
From inside the picture, I never look out,
and never want to go back.

Author’s comment: I have always had an attraction to water, especially the Gulf of Mexico. It’s life force and the dolphins that call the Gulf home mesmerize me and offer the seductiveness of serenity and peace. A place where, with my dogs, I could leave the consciousness of this world and enter a different level or dimension wishing I could truly become immersed with natures conscious.

Bio—-Staci Lynn Bell describes herself as “Yankee born, Southern in my soul.” Born in Chicago and raised in suburbia, Staci followed her heart after college. She headed south and currently calls Western North Carolina home. After a 20 year career in radio and television, she is now retired and free to pursue her passions; writing and animals, especially dogs. Staci is also a vocal advocate for wildlife and preservation of their natural habitat. Her love of animals resonates throughout her poems, short stories and essays. Staci shares her mountain cabin with 3 dogs and 1 husband.