Scent from the Window

They say the sense of smell evokes the strongest memories,

Powerful enough to transport you back in time,

To a time when you were young, innocent, and free,

Back to green summer days with blue, cloudless skies.

When you ran and jumped, chasing rabbits in the field,

Climbing too high in trees, trying to catch the wind in a jar,

Scraped knees and tears, tended with caring words and loving hands,

Your biggest worry was making it home before dark.

Now, so many years later, you hesitate,

Hand held inches from the door.

A gentle breeze passes through the window,

Carrying the scents of warm apples, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

You knock.

The door opens.

A familiar face smiles gently beyond the door.

“Would you like to come in? I’ve got fresh apple pie, your favorite.”

You smile back.

“Yes, Grandma, I’d love to.”