"One Hot Mess"
by, Cheryl Harwell Bailey

As I sit under the ceiling fan, having cold, seedless, 
sweet watermelon, it is,
 "one hot mess,"
outside.

 My dog "Sophie" (the oldest dog in history) is napping beside me, 
her dish full of fresh water on the hour.

The hens are waiting for a mist from the water hose. 
Before I venture out, I equip myself.

 Citronella bracelet, sunblock, bottle of water, big brim hat,
  and compassion for all God's creatures in this heat.