Preparation

The rowan tree is jewelled like a crown
And summer fruits have ripened on the branch,
While, on the still warm ground, are hazelnuts
To feed the birds and add to squirrels’ store.

Rose-tinted ribbons stream o’er evening skies;
They cast a glow of colour on Western hills.
And will the trees take note, pick up the theme,
Paint Autumn shades on leaves before they fall?

Fat summer birds so healthy, fit and strong
Are gathering on roof-tops, wire and branch,
A vital message rustles through the flocks
Urging the need for flight ere Winter comes.