Unable to find restful sleep I quickly open the closed blinds And await the season’s first snow With youthful anticipation. This morning one reluctant leaf Barely clings to the cherry tree As it gently sways to north winds Blowing Snow in and Autumn out. Across my window snowflakes dance; Stop, pirouette, then continue Their serendipitous journey Before resting not far from here. Summer has become a vague dream Somehow dreamed by someone else; The color of its memory Slowly dissolves in shades of white. Snow begins to blanket the earth, Securely wrapping it and me In temporary protection. This forgotten peace allows These eyes of wonder to see Falling, drifting, or melting Snow As perfection in constant change.