Inside, puttering toward Porto, I’m having breakfast with an old friend.

On our table, black coffee, yellow eggs, orange juice, brown toast, gray oatmeal.

In our ears, silverware, dishes, and laughter.

On our lips, easy conversation.

In our hearts,

Gladness.  

Goodwill.

Gratitude.

Outside the sun names the river,

Swirled gold-silver-blue-black-gray.

Rucked by our wake,

Everything is

Still.

Silent.

Serene.

I cherish both.

[Photo taken on the Douro River, Portugal, Oct. 2022]