April Love prompt: “Spring/Autumn.” One of my favorite trees on campus at Colorado State University. The color it turned this past Fall was hard to even believe, and there’s something about the way it stands there all alone against the wall of windows.

April Love prompt: “When I was small,” I was so awesome — funny, sweet, smart, sensitive, and creative. All I need to do is remember her, know that she is me…still.

April Love prompt: “Trees.” I have my favorites. Not just kinds, but individuals, pairs, stands. I could take you on a tour where I live, walk you through my neighborhood, the parks, and campus, and show you them. Until then, there’s these two who rest across the trail from the river.

Prompt, “I live here.” Fort Collins, Colorado. I walk along the Poudre River with my dogs most mornings and am amazed that I can walk out my front door and be here in 20 minutes, am touched by how beautiful it is — always changing, always constant. Home.

Prompt. “my scent.” Patchouli oil by Sun’s Eye. It’s the only thing I’ve worn, besides scented lotion, for 20 years. Eric wears it too, which probably makes me love it even more.

Prompt: “a happy memory.” 21 years ago. It was a foggy day in the mountains — Evergreen, Colorado. The elk were bugling because it was their mating season. We both wore green. Our roommate came and took a few pictures with a disposable camera. We had our “reception” at a local bar, pizza and beer, just the three of us. I don’t remember exactly what we vowed, but I do know we couldn’t stop smiling, looking at each other. Best decision e v e r, both the eloping and choosing him.