Autumn's Keep

With the hazy days of summer gone,
the days grow short, the night times long.
Leaves on trees that were vibrant and green,
now red, gold and brown, but soon not to be seen.
Creatures prepare for winter's long sleep,
food has been hidden, it's now autumn's keep.
No longer the flutter of butterflies,
just rainy days from darkened skies.
Flowers that bloomed, reduced to a husk,
blowing in shadow in the low sunshine dusk.
Windows stay shut, to keep out the cold,
time for warmth, for both young and old.
The harvest season has all but gone,
just a few autumn raspberries are all that hang on.
As winter draws near, the snowfall will come,
Hot toddies and Christmas, it's the best time for some.
Three seasons have passed, we're now at years end,
but the cycle of life is a most reliable friend.