The week since

unexpected, the walk
of a block by six blocks
and return

wrapped, double pants
flannel over white t
scarf, coat and hat

overdressed to walk
in slushy snow
and lingering dips of
melted ice

birds shook thawed
branches free of
white manna

Jay and Robin,
they shook impatiently

the air filled itself
with Sunday scents,
laundry, burning fireplaces,
wet earth and moist trees

the outdoors wrapped
itself with a blanket
and sat at its own window

waiting and watching
for incoming flakes

watching and hoping
for the chill to return once again