Falls Walk

As I walk among drifted leaves watching as a few more fly One by chance clings to my sleeve and I'm reminded of years gone by Where I am deep with in a fall leaf pile that Grandpa was raking up I recall that smell so sweet and mild as with each rake stroke I was enveloped I continue further on my way and spy rabbits nibbling flowers I hear coyotes sing their unique talk so luring I could listen for hours But a twilight sky comes creeping fast as it always does this time of year I watch the evenings colors cast upon backdrops both far and near I breathe in the fading light tasting woodsmoke scented dusk Through the landscape a wispy flight trailing it's fragrant musk An aromatic memory comes to mind of bonfires on the beach sands Mesmerized by the dying sun on the tide and the vivid hues as they'd expand I stand now in my front yard and watch stars wink on one by one Each one like a diamond shard that on a velvet cloak is sewn upon I take a final deep breath of the desert fall scented air I walk inside my welcoming home Knowing memories still grow here Placement: Honorable Mention