The sugar maples caught fire this week

Spewing leafy flame about the yard

Burning bushes are lit

Searing fence lines and fields

Crisper air has bit my nose

And colder winds through the forest blow

Evergreens are standing stiffer

Shivering silently in the new winter breeze

Birds tweet and soar

Searching now for winter homes

Children run, house-to-house

Seeking tricks or treats

Pixies, witches, monsters and heroes

Flit, fly, hobble and sprint

Bright shining sun

Warms less than just a week ago

But feels good upon my naked face

Eyes closed and full of hopeful thoughts

Setting sun brings winter’s chill

Soon an hour earlier we will run

Wood cutting and bundling up are near

For fall and winter’s promise are here