[Verse 1] Your coffee cup is waiting by the sink The porch swing keeps the rhythm when it creaks I found your old blue jacket in the hall Still smells like cedar after all The county road was washed out yesterday I took the long way home beneath the rain Your note is folded in my wallet still I read it at the top of Miller Hill [Chorus] I’m taking the long way back to you Past the fields and the water tower view If the miles can’t mend what the years ran through I’ll keep driving till I get there, too With your name on my tongue and the dawn coming on I’m taking the long way back home [Verse 2] The diner’s changed the sign above the door But June still pours the coffee like before She asked if you were coming into town I said, “I hope so,” and I looked back down I used to think that leaving made me strong Turns out I was just good at being gone Now every mile marker tells the truth There’s no place worth a thing without you [Chorus] I’m taking the long way back to you Past the fields and the water tower view If the miles can’t mend what the years ran through I’ll keep driving till I get there, too With your name on my tongue and the dawn coming on I’m taking the long way back home [Bridge] If you’re still there when the screen door swings I’ll bring no grand excuse, no diamond ring Just the man who finally understands A home is more than where you stand [Final Chorus] I’m taking the long way back to you Past the fields and the water tower view I’ll say the words I should have said to you And let the years fall where they’re due With your name on my tongue and the dawn coming on I’m taking the long way back home [Outro] The first light spills across the road I’m taking the long way back home
