The Evergreens
Beneath the thaw
are prickly bits
delicate spines
that are
far more hardy
than implied
by their fine needles
and fragile spines
yet life remains
green and strong
weathering
the storms
as we all
wait for spring
to arrive
Possessive Pride
Your words
of pride and praise
lift up my heart
and allow
my soul to glow
brightly
like the sun
breaking through
weighty clouds
to shimmer
golden
and
warm the world
The Fluttering
My heart
flutters for you
like the wings
of a bird
wild and free
ready to take flight
at the mere
turn of your gaze
to rest upon me
or the breath
that carries
your words of love
to my ears
The Nip of Winter
Winter colors
are often drab
with heavy skies
that weigh upon
the world
and yet the nip
of crisp air
as snow falls
tingles
within the senses
lightening
the world
into something
beautiful and bright
Overburdened
Weighted layers
drag down branches
to direct
usually spry tips
to point toward
the ground
as evergreen fronds
droop heavily
a little further
with every snowflake
that settles
to rest upon them
like a blanket
that becomes
ever heavier
The Frozen Hike
Ice crystal flocking
on sharp needle tips
delicately dusted
by winter’s kiss
each bit of frost
a reminder
of winter’s cold
encouraging
dressing warm
to avoid frozen toes.
Move along the path
and enjoy the day
but stay safe and warm
so you don’t have
to turn back half way
Twisting the Leaf 