to build a fire

as if i'm

in the Yukon,

stuck in a blizzard,

ala Jack London.

i bring the dog closer

to me

for warmth.

i wish for a fire to warm

us.

he shivers, i shiver.

we curl

tightly together,

but there is

worry in his eyes.

mine too,

as the wind blows

and the snow falls

outside.

reluctantly i close

the window,

and go down the stairs

to turn the heat

on.