past barren trees
path leads toward evergreens,
spring in infancy

earth still hard from winter’s cold
pine needles soften, endure

tender green shoots
entwined with fall memories
struggle toward sunshine

dream of golden summer warmth
tiger lily hearts leaping

Copyright 2014 Brenda Davis Harsham

Note: These two tanka are inspired by the Carpe Diem Haiku Kai,
and I dedicate them to Kristjaan, on the birth of his new grandchild.