The start of Autumn

Smell the expectation
as the earth snuggles down
under layers of summer cast-offs fastened
with buttons of left-over daisies

Watch the tired wind
as it tiptoes down from the hills
to tickle the damp socks on the line

High up on the eves of next door’s house
comes a silent announcement
from an empty nest

There is less to notice
but lingering no longer seems justified

Remember the sand and the seashells
inside socks
between toes
left on the pillow

Now our pockets share their tissues
heavy washing waiting
for the return of a perfect summer’s day