I watch snow flurry
thru streetlight halos
the wind bites
its venom ice
relishing the sting
while breathing smoke

getting home would be faster
by crossing the river
marked by footprints of the brave
but I bide my time
on the long way round
grinning thru the chill

I look towards the woods
time seems to slow
as snow meanders down
I stop and listen
to winter's muted sounds
then resume my stride