“JUST SPRING” IN NORTHERN MAINE
Mid -May we’ve paddled north down the Allegash.
Some snow still lies in mounds on the shaded banks
Though bobolinks will lilt in the Ranger’s patch
Near where we’ll pitch our tents at Long Lake camp.
A tiny bear cub paces on a fallen tree
Mewling for his no doubt nearby dam.
Ahead a heron flaps up frenziedly
Thinking to flee in needless panic from
Our curious but unmolesting gaze.
Among the reeds two moose lift dripping heads
To watch us while they chomp on watery hay.
Behind them a sly muskrat keeps to the edge.
The evening brings a misty rain and then
A rainbow arches at the river’s bend.