Point Defiance Park

Snowflakes fall and

flail, muffling our world .

Not to be snowbound,

footsteps lead to the park and

an angry seascape splattering

the promenade. We race the waves

that spit at the seawall,

targeting us with spray.

I jump one large wash, yet still wet my feet,

while seconds later a vast swell slams the wall,

soaking my husband.

On we trek, dodging waves and muddy puddles,

upward to the snow-laden firs,

studying animal tracks crisscrossing the trail.

Finishing the loop, we watch the zoo’s

Arctic fox smiling into the wind

and sledders careening across the road.

Stay, silent serenity and fresh, crisp air!

Stay, deep white…No, the rain returns, so I

mourn