When you go down to the woods …

My booted feet move slowly as my senses drink in spring
In the shady green woods, see the bounty that it brings.
A milky way of blooms provides a carpet for my feet
Above me, leafy bunting flutters gently to spring’s beat
Each tree providing something for this visual annual feast
Beech trees with tender leaves, all delicately creased
Darker green the Hornbeams, like tapered pleated fans,
And Hazel’s sulphur catkins dance jigs - because they can!
Old man oak, creaks into life, in calm and stately style
Home for nesting birds – a squirrel’s highway through the sky.
In a single spotlight sunbeam, a robin claims his place
Leads an orchestra of bird song at spring’s allegro pace.
On percussion, a woodpecker, lesser spotted and quite shy
Rattles his quick drumbeat, while insects buzz close by
Dappled sun shines gently through a canopy of blossom
Warms the face that marvels at the miracles I’d forgotten.
Sun creeps down behind the trees leaving shadows long and dark
Woods left to badger’s snuffle, owl’s hoot and dog fox bark.
A day in the woods now ended – time to trudge home for my tea
Tired and full of wonder at what tomorrow I may see.