I do enjoy the incongruity
Of sitting on a screened-in patio
Surrounded on all sides by broad-leafed trees,
But hearing naught but highway traffic flow;

The lake, magnificent and gray, that reaches
Beyond horizon, cool fresh water favors
The weary, yet it’s rimmed by private beaches,
Except a tiny strip packed with sunbathers;

When we return, the pool below us beckons,
Our rented home a few stone steps away
Alas, on solid fence we had not reckoned
Blocking our access. Thank you, HOA.

At least we got some potent interactions
From the frustrations and reduced distractions.