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Susan K. Rowse

Masked Babies Test Flight

Sunlight drifts through mossy strands
From gnarled fingers of a mighty oaks hands
Creatures calling from darkened holes
Infant fuzzies...warm and bold
Three pairs of eyes with masked delight
Clicking their greetings...welcoming night
One bold little infant, his claws hung out
To taste this challenge and walk about
Each fingered grip is carefully stroked
For new nerves calling on this mighty oak
Testing nature...the dare is here
Little masked creature crawling there
A tad too high then a shrieking call
Momma come get me...I'm not this tall!
She beckons to her batman with soothing clicks
Back on down Sugar...and do it quick!
Siblings echo Morse-coded calls
Strong tiny masked one, please don't fall!
Momma and me with knuckled breaths
Pray for this baby with heart felt depth
Finally secure with others in tow
Momma Raccoon...striped tail a flow
Gathers her babies, safe for this night
Til dare calls the wee ones for another test flight