Mystique

Evergreen branches bow low to the ground from the weight of the snow on them and all around the forest a thick and muffled stillness encroaches on the scenery. Overhead, a lone hawk struggles to fly through the blowing flakes of snow to return safely to his warm tree trunk.

The sun, though obscured by black and roiling clouds, begins to set and the stars chase away the daylight, struggling to be seen against the twilight sky. Winter has arrived in the forest and she has lain out the white carpet for all to see and be welcome.

Mother Nature, in her infinite wisdom, has put many of her charges to bed for the long, cold season ahead. Her soft tread upon the silent forest floor escapes notice by all but the most alert of her animal kingdom. She places her hand upon an ancient oak, and the last remaining leaf slowly swirls to the ground, coming to rest upon his brothers and sisters to create a warm blanket for the acorns that will take root in the Spring.

Father Time slowly waves his hand in an arc over the world, causing the perfect moment to last a little longer while Winter smiles beatifically at him. He approves of how well the sisters worked together this year. His beard is long and flowing but his step is spry as he moves along the snow-bright path.

Another perfect day ends and the promise of tomorrow is boundless.