That's Winter To Me

When autumn leaves on tree branches disappear And chilly winds spoil outdoor fun The warmth of a fireplace beckons me to draw near That’s winter to me. When snowflakes blanket streets with a hush, And snowplows, cars, shovels and rubber soles Leave tracks and generate dirty slush That’s winter to me. When mercury drops bitter cold penetrates my bones And I act to prevent colds, flu, and frozen water pipes, My delight is in hot tea rather than ice cream cones That’s winter to me. When heavy coats, boots, gloves, scarves, hats, Earmuffs, knits, mitts, sweaters, and wool gear Make me feel like I’m hauling a bundle of baseball bats That’s winter to me. When smoke oozes from my nose and mouth Crisp air makes lips chap, teeth rattle, fingertips numb, Desire for warmer weather make me head south That’s winter to me. When days are short and nights too long And Christmas celebrations have waxed and waned, My prayers for spring to hurry up don’t seem wrong That’s winter to me.