Nighty Night
Tastes like
mugwort
but better
for sleep
the brew is
sipped slowly
with a few
sweet cookies
before bed
with instant regret
quick to follow
as warmth engages
the inner furnace
and even a sheet
is too much
for sleep
writing challenge
Gideon’s Challenge – City Lights
City Lights
So many people
and too much
traffic
loud noises
and lights galore
the city
is strung with
love and cheer
in a reminder
to bring
those you love
near
so take a breath
and seek out
moments
of beauty
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Christmas Nap
Christmas Nap
Warm inside
with lots of food
and a turkey coma
coming on
as a comfortable spot
is found
not on a sofa
or chair
but lying
on the floor
with head settled
beneath the tree
watching colorful lights
wink
among the boughs
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – A Bit of Silly
A Bit of Silly
A skinny little
Christmas tree
staring out
at me
as we wait
for doctor’s orders
and wonder
how long the wait
will be
but the eyeballs
bring a smile
and a hint of cheer
to make the wait
worthwhile
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – The Boots
The Boots
All decked out
and lit
in welcome
the warm glow
offers a reprieve
from the
long drive
and the cold
as it feels
like snow
even though
there’s not a flake
to be seen
so take
your shoes off
and come on in
Photo © ZenStatePhotography
Gideon’s Challenge – Trees with Teeth
Trees with Teeth
It’s in the
crisp tingle
in the nose
and prickle
on the skin
that emerald hues
remain vibrant
through winter
for the miracle is
in the evergreens
that stay
lush and full
as winter
bites deep
Twisting the Leaf 