Fading summer green
ushers in a burst of red
and orange and gold.
Vivid leaves hold tight
because it’s time to show off,
but only briefly.
The brisk autumn breeze
shakes them, scatters them about,
forming a blanket.
Runners and joggers
hear the crunch, feel the cushion
as they stride along.
Winds brush back their hair.
Smoke from the chimneys billows
Ahh, it smells so good!
Long-sleeve fleece will do.
Everyone else needs a coat.
That’s autumn running.
Halloween Half (marathon) 10/18/15