Feigned Winter

Infinitesimal globules of opaque
moisture occlude the atmosphere
sodden with unending rain.
This has been a strangely different
emerging winter devoid of
winter's calling cards but for days
interrupted by early dusk and
the absence of migratory birds.
Not absolute as some choose
unwisely to remain within the
still-green landscape touched with
the austerity of naked trees. Yet
weather so mild prevails sufficient
to entice shrubs to blossom and
garden perennials to restlessly 
stir above the moist, unfrozen soil.
Wildlife whose instincts tell them
of the need to hibernate still
forage where snow normally 
blankets the forest floor. Twilight
snuggles itself into the afternoon
joining the mist rising from
watercourses and valleys and
all too soon falls night's closure.