Leaves tumbling in splendid disarray Brighten the world with colors abounding Resplendent in oranges, reds and golds Near-naked trees surrounding Reminiscent of rainbows in a kaleidoscope Camouflaging the muddy, barren ground Robins deserting their once bountiful nests Beautiful autumn departs boldly and profound Scraggly little branches and dying leaves Crunch under our feet as we walk to and fro Their usefulness over; their fate now sealed Reluctantly, the final ones gracefully let go As the weather transforms to cold and bleak Their wondrous splendor fades away Grey curtains of winter rapidly descend We will remember their glorious display Kathleen McCoy Eldridge© June 23, 2006 All Rights Reserved