Winter

Grackles swarm to rest

on bare limbs that must

wait for spring to bring

leaves and life.



A sudden launch

and a single turn

sends them south,

their stencils of flight

following predestination.



Lawns dormant under

continuous days of gray

and cold, keep those

of us who do not migrate

close to our shelters.



We tend to gather

for treats and conversation

to cheer us through

the long, drab season.



Pop the cork!