Apricity

by Maria Bonar

I welcome the cold, drenching rain
after a blistering summer
withered geraniums, yellow lawn
dwindling tree canopy

but I relish those blue sky winter
afternoons, on the back patio
sun thawing the stiffness from my fingers
casting gold on my cheeks and eyelids.

The old moggy stretched out at my feet
pavers gently toasting, reflecting warmth.
Bittersweet taste of creamy mocha,
Tim Tam melting on my tongue.

• Ballajura, Western Australia,
  traditional land of the Whadjuk
  people of the Nyoongar Nation.
• Apricity: the warmth of the sun
  on a winter’s day.