October came
wet and malicious
Swelling rivers
flooding roads
Then sunshine
Like summer
gave one last breath
Refused to keel over
and fall into winter’s
icicle clutches

We walked on the beach
surprised by our dog
his lunatic chasing
of seagulls
that flew mocking
at his approach

He drank sea water
swallowing the brine
Thirsty all over again
for water
that brings only thirst

October came
but all too soon
will fade
Then snow
will bring him
another excuse
to bow his head
to drink