Anticipation of Autumn

by Robert M. Thompson

Waking up to the chilly dawn

Hoping for the frost,

And then feeling the cold flow away

To be replaced by a deceptively warm day

Was just one of a fading summer’s tricks.

The coats being worn in the morning’s cool

And being carried in the afternoon’s warmth

Were just another sign

Of the approaching chill

And of the changing days.

In the fenced-in backyard

I could be seen

Desperately watching the sky

For snow clouds

And south-bound birds.