The green expanse of grass

Where Lacey and I stroll

 Is cold-whitened in the chill overnight

It scrunches underfoot,

resembling

 Chinese crisped seaweed

specially bleached

Above, across the morning blue

White clouds stretched taut

Like varicose veins pulled thin in a late winter sky.

We’re icy cold and missing you

So we’re returning 

homeward bound, both dog and I.

Beneath our feet, pavements sparkle,

In this low morning light

with a frosting, like diamonds and marcasites.

Ahead, our cottage, our home beckons

Radiating with love and warmth

You offer a welcoming mug of steaming coffee

But I defer the delight of sipping,

momentarily,

Whilst I’m warmed by your tender love embrace.

I'm now unfrosted.