Looking down the hill just now

At the pretty grey lake far below

Becoming aware there are ripples

In a flowing-glass surface, it tickles



To think at this exact time last year

There were skaters on it without fear

Who moved gracefully over the glaze

And now they are probably quite dazed



To see their favorite pastime is not to be

For the warmth of the air prevents freeze

And so they have to find some other sport

To play in this surprising mid-January thaw



- Tristram



Christopher W. Thomas

5:15pm Sat. Jan. 10th, 98