From your earth

Springs proud maíz

Whose nixtamal we pound

Till fine as gold dust

Of our California rivers.

Your sweet dough brings life

And happiness, enfolding carne,

Scooping beans stewed in manteca;

Emulsifying cocoa azteca,

Azúcar as brown as the leaves
That have survived past autumn,

In leche white as mountain snow;

Steaming like the desert hot springs,

Sipped on chilly mornings

Alrededor del tiempo de Navidad,

Thick and creamy, herbal, spicy.

Winter—crisp, cold, merciless—

Brings warmth and comfort.