The Husks
Prickly pods
and seedful promise
as husks dry out
and crack open
to let promises
fall into
breezy embrace
and float away
to find
their place
in fertile soil
to sink in the mud
and come spring
flourish and bud
rain forest
Gideon’s Challenge
The Napping Spot
Ever green
the evergreen
and prickly
as can be
don’t come
too close
or you will find
needle tips
that sting
but climb beneath
and slide in
deep
and protected
you shall be
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
Your Arms
A little nook
a quiet place
a spot to stay
and grow
a nurturing bit
of encouragement
from the soil
of your love
In your arms
I feel safe
you keep me warm
and as I snuggle in
close and deep
you shelter me
from the storm
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge 5
The Decay Begins
Shifting colors
mottled rot
mold and mildew
joining the cost
leaves that fall
begin to decay
and those that hang
are eaten away
while their blended
scents
fill chill air
announcing to all
that Autumn
is here
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
The Hedgerows
Blue skies
and autumn clouds
and turning leaves
on the ground
come walk with me
among the rows
and enjoy the nip
of chill not yet cold
Soon tree leaves
will begin to fall
the world aflame
enough color for all
but for right now
lets take a walk
just you and I
among the rows
gone to rot
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge
The Cycles
Gone are little
floral bits
as berries swell
with raindrop’s kiss
a little sun
and then the grow
to tempting fruit
making
branches bow
Soon enough
leaves will change
and life will fade
til spring comes
again
Twisting the Leaf 