THE LIVED-IN LOOK

I like a house with a lived-in look,
not like the ones in a picture book
where everything's spotless and neat as a pin --
makes me almost afraid to even go in.

I like a house with a well-seasoned look,
with a friendly tone and a breakfast nook,
where the brewing coffee flavors the air,
and the fabric's worn on the easy chair.

I like a house with a cozy glow
where the colors of warmth just seem to flow,
with a little clutter and some kiddie toys
scattered about with some laughter and noise.

I like a house with love inside,
where honor and truth and joy abide,
and friends are welcome to come and stay,
sit back, relax, and spend the day.

I like a house with a lived-in look,
not like the ones in a picture book
that are formal and cold and neat as a pin --
I like a house that invites me in.

Copyright © 2004 Ruth Gillis