Slick and slimy
boots slide
on the surface
of saturated bark
and the slew
of wet lichen
moss
and more
A hand comes
down
to catch balance
and the smear
of it coats
over the palm
feeling
like a handful
of snot.
Dark skies
gather above
a field
sucked dry
of life
until leaves
are brittle bits
of delicate debris
I stand
and watch
darkening clouds
promising
cold kisses
soon to fall
and breathe in
deep.
Soft and squishy
and just
a little damp
but still welcoming
a carpet
of softness
that blankets
everything
and whispers
about just how
comfortable
a nuzzle
and a nap
could be.
Flashes of color
draw the eye
as winter chill
fills the air
and we ride
down the
long road home.
There is a promise
for next year
lying dormant
in their blush
but I can’t wait
for snow
to mute their hues
Fuzzy
furry
little leaves
bow to the chill
yet still
are green
Last harvest done
all that remains
enough to return
in spring
once again.
Time to protect
and hope.
Lie down
and settle in
on damp moss
and pine needles
and take
a moment
to breathe
and sink into
the smallest
details
and most delicate
hints of
a different world
just beyond
your grasp.