Plowed snow boulders along curbside,

Industrious squirrels in hunting gear

Cranky crows, afternoon squabbles

Scattered limbs, crushed acorns and walnut shells,

Two skinny snow figures, standing sentinels;

Under the dogwood, brave daffodils emerge,

green fingers holding tightly wrapped buds.

A slight wind stirs up conversation, twittering

maple twigs and crackling white oak leaves.

Nature welcomes winter’s unhurried pace

While celebrating signs of transformation..