Muted

Muted, yet still holding

a subdued vibrancy,

a palette of chrysanthemums 

on display at country farm markets.

 A cooler, dry atmosphere

carries fair-weather cumulus,

pushing them slowly eastward

where they pile up on the horizon.

Ripened acorns zip through leaves

and bounce off my inverted canoe.

A sound that signals

the approach of autumn.

Some fall warblers in muted colors

are in a feeding frenzy

as they move in waves

slowly southward.

These autumn days are magnificent,

but growing much shorter.

Warm light slants in at a lower angle;

muted, but welcomed.

© 2022 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations:

1. Frugthaven Farm - Greenville, Michigan

2. Home Garden - Cannonsburg, Michigan

3. Home Fields - Cannonsburg, Michigan

4. Naples Preserve - Naples, Florida

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums stand up

hardy and erect,

manifesting their 

autumn masculinity.

Can you name

all these October colors

as you pick out

some Indian corn,

and your potted plants,

while wearing your flannel shirt?

As you drive

the country roads

to the farm market

to have your cider and donuts,

to pick out your pumpkins?

Are the roadsides

meeting your autumn expectations

for vibrancy and artistry? 

Are you stopping the car

to walk these narrow roads

splashed with red-yellow-orange?

© 2021 Richard Havenga

Photo Locations:

1. & 2. Home Garden - Cannonsburg, Michigan

3. & 5. Wayside Gardens - Greenville, Michigan

4. Frugthaven Farm - Greenville, Michigan

6. Egypt Valley Country Club - Ada, Michigan

7. Grattan Township - Kent County - Michigan