At the Orchard in Autumn

In Autumn
when the cows
huddle together in the
mornings
as the sun dips
lower in the sky
lingering but for a moment
then disappears behind
the snow clouds, for
months of hibernation;
we gathered at the orchard
to pluck the bounty
from fertile limbs
bowing low
leaves, green
and thick like warm
blankets in winter.
We pull the reds and greens
full of juice as it runs
down the chin
capturing purity
with a hint of bitterness
as an after taste chaser
but for just today,
bags hanging from arms
we depart content
with the harvest
though leery of what
tomorrow holds.