It's Still Life

I. Fog, Then Light

Thankful that the November fog usually lifts by afternoon. Then the roof wakes up and gets back to making electricity.

II. Fog on the Hills

Thankful for fog sliding over the hills. It gives the landscape another language.

III. No Harm Done

Thankful that a kitchen fire at our local pub was put out quickly. Nobody was hurt, and that is the part that matters.

IV. Briefly Ablaze

Thankful for that short season when the trees burn brightest through fog. November knows how to hold my attention.

V. Still Blooming

Thankful that the roses haven’t given up yet. November can wait its turn.

VI. Still Writing

Thankful for a month of writing alongside people I’ve known for decades. The poems change; the friendship stays.

VII. The Old Right of Way

Thankful for an ancient right of way through this magnificent tunnel of trees. Some paths belong to more than whoever owns the land.

VIII. Not-My-Cat

Thankful for the Not-My-Cat who seems to think he is my cat. Assuming, of course, that any cat believes it belongs to anyone.

IX. Right of Way

Thankful for two of the funniest squirrels in Sussex. She doesn’t go around him. She goes over him.

X. New Visitor

Thankful for a grey heron visiting the garden. First sighting, and far too handsome to go unnoticed.