Because of a blizzard

I had to stay home

And stare out the window

As snow fell in gusts and winnows

And drifts inched up

As I watched birds cluster around the feeders.

The cat crouched next to me

Both of us caught up in bird drama,

Soap opera of finches and cardinals and grackles

Battling the elements and each other.

When they glimpse a shadow

Of me or the cat

The birds spatter to the trees fast as light

Whirl though the falling snow, and wait

For awhile.

The cat and I keep still until they return and we can

Pick up the plot again.