bundled people scurry
through trodden dirty snow

mr. white shoveling his walk

the cold sting of each deep breath
while the strong wind pushes me along

light snowfall blowing past
my scarf hidden face

opening the door
the warmth welcomes me

taking off my winter coat
i hear "daddy!"

children delighted at my presence
i delight at theirs

sitting beside the fireplace
she brings me hot cocoa
in my favorite mug

“hi, honey”

the children nestled on my lap
i look up and say
"thank you"