Calico Rose

Calico Rose, I have watched you from afar
dancing in your garden
by torchlight and watchful gaze
of marmalade sky

I have seen you under desert willow
in scornful heat of sun
weaving baskets,
wearing the dress you fashioned
from fabric you bartered for in Santa Fe

Misshapen straw hat shielding your face
sipping frozen margaritas
while you hum a tune from years gone by

Bare feet connect with dusty earth
keeping you grounded in present reality
while tonight you dream
of Picasso's Blues.