LAST CHANCE CANYON

Searching for petroglyphs, we traverse
a steep slope of rotten limestone, 
cracking like thin sheets
of loose tile. We part
and carefully pick separate
ways, mindful of each step,
until we meet beneath
an overhang and rest in the shade.

We tend the dogs, soak
their heads with cool water, drink 
deep water ourselves, spit grape seeds over
the cliff. Gazing from the coolness
of stone to the shimmering haze
of desert heat rising from Last
Chance Canyon, I realize how long
it's been since last I kissed you.



© 2004 by Richard W. Todd

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