I Remember

Willow trees… magical and matronly holders of memory. I remember swinging from their branches as a child growing up near Massachusetts’ North Shore, or hiding in the alcove of their long, trailing wig of leaves. I love the wondrous willow.

Many willow trees hunch over the banks of Dow's Lake in Ottawa, ON. This serene escape in the middle of the city has made being far from home bearable, and it's often served as a place of comfort when I needed to catch my breath. I went there this summer to take some pictures — something to use to promote my upcoming book, Meet Me in the Market. Yes, the willow tree makes an appearance. So, I shall drop more lore by sharing this poem:

I remember the day by the willow tree,
Staring at the paddle boats in the lake,
The hot sun beaming down,
Making shiny white peaks on the wake.
I remember my head on your shoulder,
Your strong hand gripping mine,
Sitting there, not speaking.
I remember wanting to pause time.
I remember feeling nervous,
When your hands moved to my face,
And you whispered, "I want to kiss you."
I remember feeling my heart race.
I remember it was magic,
Or maybe it was just the summer haze.
I remember it was too good to last
Longer than those summer days.
I remember that day by the willow tree
As clear as a waking dream.
Haunted by a hundred other memories,
I still remember everything.

— “I Remember,” from Cocoon

Meet Me in the Market releases next year. Subscribe to get updates as release day approaches. In the meantime, Cocoon is available on Amazon and your favourite online retailer.

Leaving for now with iced coffee & a good book.

— Sharla