Autumn dripping leaves of weary gold Exits quietly, fading through the trees. Hawthorn shakes her cloak of ruby fire. Naked to the woods and twisting breeze.   Winter’s breath now lingers in the air. Strands of whispered frost on silver lace. Deep within the green a distant voice. Calls the breeze to dance with chilling grace.   Winter’s tune plays keenly on the wind. Snowflakes dance and play her melody. Wrapped in fur she drapes the scene in white. Nature shrouded, steeped in mystery.   Winter’s touch threads spider’s webs with gems. Diamond drops of cold reflected glass. Water turns to stone with breathless ease. Frozen daggers arm each blade of grass.   Winter’s kiss enchants the wood to sleep. Holly smiles and stains her berries bright. Mistletoe wound tight on blackened bough. Strands of pearl reflecting ghostly light.   Winter’s song plays on throughout the night. Nature’s secrets slumber in the earth. Spring will wake them with the sun’s return Thaw the ground and call them to rebirth.