Awakening in the early morning,
I watch the sun peek out from the dark sky.
Snow covers my feet as I breathe in the cold, raspy air. 
The howl of coyotes can be heard from miles away.
Icicles hang from every home.
Fireplaces stay lit to keep a family warm in the harsh, yet beautiful winter.
Christmas trees and ice sculptures fill the center of the modest town.
Children skate on the pond together, playing games, such as tag.
Only up north, I find myself at peace.

It was early Christmas morning.
Everyone asleep, the sun barely peeked through the clouds, grey and deep.
I grabbed a cup of coffee and parted the blinds.
The snow was gently falling, creating a blanket, nice and neat.
I grabbed my boots and jacket and walked out on the deck.
The sight before me, like a winter wonderland, I couldn’t resist. I had to take a trek.
As I walked along the path, I heard an unfamiliar noise.
I turned and looked, I thought what the heck?
They appeared—a herd of beautiful deer, families large and small.
I looked into the sky, and thanked God, for this truly was the best Christmas gift of all.
Only up north, I find myself at peace.