lately

lately,
i've been sitting
in the backyard
of my mind
trying to find
something
that carelessly
i threw there
long ago.
as i dig
i unearth
treasures
of forgotten times.
tooth fairy boxes
colorful pictures
worn out books
birthday parties
and games of tag.
bottles
filled with laughter
tears and rebukes
compliments and emotions
lost thoughts.
finally
i find
what i am
searching for
and i come up,
covered in memories
that stick to me
like caked mud
as i enter the house.