Soft rustle at woodland’s edge
Shyly peering out at winter’s passing

Long slumbering beneath earth’s cold bite
Now reaching out a questing toe

Chill breezes steal day’s brief warmth
And residents shiver in protected nooks

Frost yet bites tender growth
Then yields to dawn’s new light

Nostrils raise to scent and tread
And life stirs within seed and soil

Rain-washed earth and ways are
Streaked with plants’ golden offerings

Stone and wood yield welcomed warmth
Hearken, hearken …