snow pack

here the snow is mostly gone
the shade keeps its cold going
longer though and dirty   streets need a good
sweeping before we can hang sheets on the line outside

though it rained a few days ago,
it was not enough.  every step lifts dust
enough to make you cough
or snuffle or worst, its something to bring a sickness down
cold in the head while the land warms up every day
a little more

up north not far from here the snow is four feet deep
still and more is coming
the water is icy and the squirrels are antsy