Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_0021-(2)The Grass is Greener

Now that snow
covers the land
and everything
is encased in ice
I long for green
in rich
and varied hues
and the drip of moss
from low branches
instead of
icicles

Honestly?
I just want to go out and take some pictures, but the temperatures are too low to go out and play in the snow.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_0018-(2)Too Dry

Cold weather
saps the moisture
from breath and air
and skin
as well
as forehead itches
and backs of hands
roughen
there’s not enough
lotion
in the world
to bring skin back
from this
chapped dry state
and still…
I try.

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_0012-(2)Chance Encounters

A moment’s pause
with treat in tow
a moment
to breathe in
the scent of snow
and look over
the world
with an
assessing eye
and enjoy the quiet
pit pat of new snow
then off to home
and a crackling fire
to settle in
and get warm
for a while

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_0006Shower Time

Nerves sensitive
with sharp edges
and prickly moments
when others approach
dissolve
with a deep breath
of wet air
as rivulets of water
trail down
over scarred flesh
warm and soothing
they wash away
more than sweat
but help
ease nerves
and lower
unnecessary defenses

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_E6661End of Day

Golden glow
pours
through windows
and spills
across tabletop
and crystal bits
and
collected detritus
coloring
the world
in the warmth
of day’s end
creating
a lazy moment
to sit in stillness

Photo © ZenStatePhotography

Gideon’s Challenge

IMG_9928Expectation Fails

More snow
I whisper
as I wait for flakes
to fall
and yet
it still
does not come
and my longing
for crisp air
and muffled sounds
of boots
through white
remain

Unfulfilled

Photo © ZenStatePhotography