Surreal Nature

First frost has come overnight, and the quaking aspens have blanketed the hills with brilliant splashes of amber. Even the ruts in the driveway, are beautifully trimmed in rime, glistening in the touch of sunlight that has just now fondled the horizon. Finn,..our golden lab, struggles to get up on his feet this morning, to be let out. He limps a bit stiffly, then hesitates, reluctant to step out into a chilly dawn. It's the first time I have noticed how rudely is a gray veil clouding those wise, brown eyes. Finally, he ventures outside, walking gingerly, under a sky, jaggedly streaked with purple. The morning air is persuading the cold breath of winter soon to follow. Mourning doves are slowly disappearing, although two familiar stragglers, like old friends, are sitting high upon the shed roof, watching the leaves tumble like golden gems to the earth....and keeping watch, like soldiers, at their post. And Finn forgets his discomfort, for just one moment, and runs for a closer look. He jumps, barks, and they fly off into the sunrise. There is an odd feeling in today's somber light, which seems to turn the page of another season. a tail thumps the door as I reach for the leash... we wait for the sun _________________________________________________________________ For Contest Sponsored By Broken Wings 9/20/13