Revenuers

wind ruffles the green leaves
cold air pours down from above
children sit by the fireplace with
palms up towards the flames,
adults wear layers of clothes
shivering silently inside...
animals curl up in a ball, their
noses tucked in behind tails,
all in a effort to stay warm
while saving on electric bills;
grandparents stay busy in the
kitchens moving about while
opening the oven door...
pot roast and deserts sit on 
the counters cooling, hoping
it is not too hot to eat...  white
liquid in mason jars have a 
place on the table since cousins
and uncles just brewed a new batch,
revenuers sped up the dirt roads
hoping the catch them in action,
and when they reach the still that
has been vacant for years they are
amazed by the waste of time but
agree to sit down for a warm meal.

January 19, 2024