Soft sand, red rock, 
prickly sage terrain, where blinding 
heat strikes like a fist and broods 
each drop from the ground. Yet, abundance 
still scurries and flowers, peaks 
and hides, scavenges and burrows. 
'Rounding a curve, shadows lengthen and lush 
begins—moist breath of a cooler wind comes 
to meet me and the calm 
whisper of water falling in 
the distance greets my ears 
willingly. Calf creek is playful 
and giggles as fish tickle with fins and tails. 
A sympathetic shade hovers over—protection 
from sun's tough love. The trail reaches 
onward with eager fingers, corners jut 
and jog. My core anticipates. Gush, 
splash, mist, vibrant mossy pool 
surrounds, while plants scale 
walls like sprouting children.