On a stolen piece of high desert
by a man-made lake, planted shade trees,
cleared mostly of coyotes and king snakes,
we take pride in a bird feeder on a patio
and impound our cat indoors.

At sunset birds come against
cotton-wool clouds backlit
easing their way east.
Plants watered after a hot day
and worse weather due tomorrow.

I am pillowed, at ease, despite
a pedestrian passing who curses life,
despite the fury of fenced dogs
as a neighbor and her terriers
stroll the back alley. Forgive me 
for relishing suburbia,
and ornamental goldfinches.