A Rural Autumn Morning

The sun was just waking up
And creeping between the trees.
Crisp, cool air sparkled my senses
On this lovely autumn morning.

I grabbed my trusty old walking staff
The sturdy wood was smooth
Under years of use in my hands.
Together, we headed down the hill.

A patchwork quilt of leaves
Blanketed the forest floor.
Morning dew quieted my steps
Across the trees' cast-off clothing.

My garden lay barren now,
Its harvest long gone.
I walked past the empty rows-
Knew they were dreaming of next spring.

I paused by the small stream
That fed into the pond.
In the cold mud were tracks,
Prints of animals already gone.

A deer had paused for a sip
From this flowing water.
So had a possum
On its way to the persimmon trees.

I stood there awhile,
Taking in all the glory
Of that autumn morning.
I am so blessed!