Afternoon sun sets quickly
as the wind scatters snow
and ice through the forest.
Summer ponds holding ducks
assume a new role and face
as the moon consumes the surface.
The main path follows the
base of the hill winding
past wetlands.
Ravens assume positions
in trees surrounding the
open field.
The dogs of winter
follow their own path,
darting into the forest
after smells and sounds
that are new, that are carried
in by the cold wind.
The sky darkens quickly,
becoming an orange backdrop
as the dogs of winter return
briefly to primal instincts
running with raw speed
across the hill-top.
