The days are so much shorter
the summer's sun has left the sky
the cooler winds of change are here
as tree leaves fall and snowbirds fly
storm doors open and bring the rain
so missed, so long unseen
to quench the thirst of distant hills
and turn them winter green

once more I see tree laden peaks
and valleys far below
explode in autumn's vibrant attitude
of yellow, red and golden glow
Leaves dance between the drops of rain
to music mother nature played
knowing next spring they will return
bringing trees to life and summer shade

Soon, under winters bitter blade
naked bark will cry and moan
Some boughs will break as others rattle
a cold and desperate song
But life endures, warm days will come
and bring new buds and leaves and flowers
starting a wondrous new tapestry
as we rejoice that the earth is ours