Crisp, cold air floods my body
as I silently open the door.

It swings on its rusty old hinges
making a sound much like a mouse.

I tiptoe down the pathway
making sure to not soak my socks
in the damp uncut grass.

As I approach the deserted cul-de-sac,
the bright and shiny moon comes into view.

It is so beautiful,
but hides behind a thin blanket of fog
almost as if it wants to feel protected.

A dog howls in the distance,
and for a second I am alarmed.

My heart starts to pace at the thought of being out here alone,
vulnerable to any creature who wishes to come my way.

But then I dismiss this childish thought,
and breathe in one more breath of nature,
the frigid air rushing into my lungs.

It’s time to return to reality.

Until then, nature.