Across a field from the dorms, a hike,
up a hill, and lost, or nearly,
we trudged until we found again
the Picnic Tree.
Vast, enormous, with perches
and arms outstretched to hold us,
tuck us in, and secure us
as we lounged, draped all around
and up and down that tree.
Five girls at a time, or more, each
with a snack, and a daydream,
a crush to speak of in code.
There was never a wind, a hush
surrounded us. The forest listened
and held our secrets dear;
looked into our hearts, our longings,
whispered promises over us
of someday, our own.
