This poem is for you, Mike, envisioning the near future when we will return to the mountains for our next hike

***

All I need are the mountains and the trees

Along with your love that brings me to my knees

Let’s lace up our boots and prepare our packs

Knowing that whatever this new day brings, we will have each other’s backs

I know you want to wander off, that eager free spirit that you are

Go have fun, and don’t worry, for I won’t be far

You can lead the way up, I promise to stay close-by

So explore away, my love, but don’t forget to look to the sky

Give praise and thanks to the One you carry in your heart

The One responsible for Mother Nature’s incredible work-of-art

He who made you to be just the way you are

And brought me into your life to help you get this far

Should you look back and not see me, just know I’m never far behind

But I want to hang back a bit and watch as you climb

I need time to reflect on all you’ve been through and how far you’ve come

All of the things you have left to do and all that you’ve already done

Forever in awe by your strength and determination

Proudly accompanying you to your final destination

So many things we want to do together, and never enough time

But I know we will do our best and have fun trying

So here’s to all of the places we’ve gone and all of the things we have yet to do

Just know I’ll forever be by your side whispering “I love you”