The Year in a Weekend

In crisp New England autumn air

Warm sun takes the edge off the chill.

Tall corn stalks all around

Hear the wind whistle through the maize;

Smell the aromas of earth and fresh corn.

Wander happily through twists and turns.

Momentarily alone

Blissfully aware

Of being hopelessly lost

*****a few hours later*****

Load up the car, drive to the beach

Unload and sneak onto the sand behind homes
In the cold, dark night the men start a fire

That is blown in all directions by the wind

The venture is quickly ended.

A short drive to a small peninsula

Sneaking around, quietly discover

An abandoned fire pit.

The men again attempt a fire

This time it works and doesn't stray.

The fire burns bright and pops

And reaches in all directions

Finally, a warm restful fire with friends

Until the water starts to rise

And pushes us up further inland

Watching and laughing as water battles flames

Flames fight back and refuse to die out

Slowly smoldering, slowly leaving,

Slowly signaling the end of warm-weather fun.

The next day dawns

Dark and dreary, cold and rainy.

Children use song to honor the pastors,

Despite technical difficulties.

Lounging lazily on the couch with friends

We realize that summer and fall

Are drawing to an end

As we watch giant flakes fall from the sky

As I sit and recall the snowy beauty

I have but one regret:

I didn't take a picture.