Transitions
Flares of color
among the green
as forests and fields
begin to change
and leaves to fall
and soon the forests
will shift
from vibrant green
to golden fire
and then fall
to the deep dark
evergreen shades
of winter’s shadow
pacific rain forest
Gideon’s Challenge
Be Bear Aware
Snuggled in close
wedged against your side
I nuzzle the scruff
in a rough glide
of soft skin to whiskered
and hear you rumble low
as strong arms curl me in
for you to snuggle close
in your
protective presence
I feel so safe
let’s never leave
this wonderful place
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Nature’s Hypnotics
Drip.. Drip..
Drip… Drip…
Raindrops fall
from slate gray clouds
kissing every surface
trailing along
curves and slopes
they drip from leaf tips
and little lateral buds
I could watch
this process for hours
if only the bite of cold
didn’t require
continued movement
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
The Aftermath
Take what is said
and let it bead up
and roll off
like a rain slicker
protecting your emotions
from being splattered
by poisoned rain
then later you can wallow
in the wet grass
and muddy soil
enriched and protected
instead of spat at
with arrows of
stinging chill
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Shrubbery Rustlers
Hide me deep
beneath the leaves
where fronds
create shadows
and damp earth
is protected
by lush green
and I will peek out
at thee
from deep shadow
as I remain quiet
except
for the occasional
rustle
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Sunset Rainbow
Sunset’s golden glow
kisses yellow
on every surface
setting the world
ablaze
in color
as nature’s paintrbush
paints the sky
with the sweet glow
of hues
only found in
very special moments
Twisting the Leaf 