Fall 

Autumn on the marsh, Squirrels,

chickadees and jays have stashed

Winds grew stronger until they lashed

Fluttering leaves depart alder’s bark

Left are stragglers from geese to larks

Ruby samphire and yellow-tipped reeds

Sway near lone pine with their lost seeds

Milkweed puffs where monarchs took flight

Rushing toward the warmer nights

All shall sleep in peaceful rest

Awaiting spring to look their best

By Irene Doucet