Soft Lips

 

There is no color quite like it.

I'm talking here about the

golden-yellow-orange

of these California Poppies

that flower in dazzling abundance

in Arizona's Sonoran Desert.

When a warm spring

follows a wet winter,

they spread a golden carpet

over this dry land

to enchant the casual observer.

Bring joyous color

for the serious photographer

to capture a close-up view.

The yellow-gold intensifies.

Deeper, vibrant, fully alive.

Create lovely images

in the mind

of this grateful poet

when the desert breeze

kisses the soft lips

of poppy petals.

© 2026 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations: 

Picacho Peak State Park - Arizona

Shared Treasure

 

After wading thigh-deep in the gulf,

screening the bottom sand for shells,

I angle back into the shore

to show you my best

treasure of the day,

to be added to my collection.

Then I offer you a salty kiss.

A shared treasure.

© 2025 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations:

1. Sanibel Island, Florida

2. North Fort Myers, Florida

Water Love

Soft as a butterfly's touch
on a flower petal,

the evening calm
whispered to the water,

then a gentle rain kissed her skin;
the smooth, dark silk of the lake. 

© 2017 Richard Havenga

Photo Location:  Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado 

Red Haiku

soft summer raindrops

kiss sensuous red petals

please linger longer

©  2014  Richard Havenga

Gladiolus species: "Oscar"

Photo Location: Home Garden