Radiation Reflection, Weekend 4, Saturday

New Mexico bourbon,
vodka, and gin,
fill mason jars
as my friend slices vanilla beans -
the tips of her fingers turning brown
as caramel, oak, and juniper berry fragrances
fill the air between our laughter.

We drop beans into the spirits,
let them tumble
and settle in clear,
golden brown temptations.
In eight months, we’ll have
vanilla extract for cookies
and presents.

This means we still have hope for Christmas.
We still have hope for Christmas.