November leaves have given way
To the nakedness of December trees
Bare branches sway with sultry charm
Amid the swollen air
Or claw the bleak grey skies.
Those loose limbs dance wildly
While battling shrieking gales
Of sleet and rain
They stand solidly, embracing the blizzard of falling flakes
Dressed in pristine white, a forest of sparkling winter brides.
When morning comes,
Sunlight gently disrobes their branches
Devoid of birds, squirrels nestled deep inside their trunks,
Deer nibbling the frozen bark,
Solid arms outstretched ready to welcome night owls