Dazzling Icicles Enhance a Frosty Winter’s Night

DEP poetry prompt for January: “How do winter nights make you feel?”

I left Emmanuel Hospital at midnight.

Walked to my faithful Subaru Outback.

Brrr, slid onto a cold, frigid seat,

Keyed the ignition, “Betsy take me home.”

Cruised empty Highway 26 on autopilot.

The heaven above displayed twinkling stars.

Too soon I drove down a foggy rural road.

White-knuckled hands gripped the steering wheel.

Low-beam headlights pierced the fog,

Could barely see the road ahead.

Christmas lights on houses guided my way,

Showing where the road surface might lay.

Avoiding roadside ditches was the danger.

Windshield wipers whisked ice crystal flakes aside.

Creeping along at a snail’s pace,

Thank God I’m the lone car on this road.

Eventually eased into my driveway,

Don’t remember how I got there.

Exterior lights welcomed me home.

Opened the door. My husky danced with glee.

Exhausted, I thought of my comfy bed, but

nervous energy buzzed from the harrowing drive

I brought the propane fireplace to life,

Sipped red wine, mesmerized by flickering flames.

My faithful husky lay her muzzle on my thigh.

I pet her soft fur with grateful hands

And thanked my angels for a safe return.

My eyelids drooped and I crawled into bed.

Hours later I awakened and rushed to the window.

A hazy, wind-driven mist swirled outside.

The first pink rays of sun pierced the sky,

Spot lighting a row of icicles along the eave.

My wondrous eyes viewed a magical tableau.

A flowering cherry tree was an ice-covered delight.

Mother Nature created a spectacular winter pageant.

My entire neighborhood resembled a crystal globe.

Quickly, I brewed a pot of coffee.

Cradling a warm mug in my hands,

Savoring a rich aroma and delectable taste,

I reveled in the glorious spectacle as night withdrew.

Thank you DEP poetry editor, Dr. Gabriella Korosi for issuing this prompt. It reminded me of a precious winter night’s memory when I lived in Forest Grove, Oregon.

Please read two articles that inspired me today.

Carmellita shows us how using your unique voice can have an impact on others.

Suma Narayan writes a heartfelt tribute to her father who passed away.

✍ — Published by Maryan Pelland OnText.com, at Dancing Elephant Press. Click here for submission guidelines.