Something warm for a cold day.

Winter wind howls boldly and shakes the rafters tall,
Yet no wind can quell the fire, nor the joy within the hall.
Round food and drink we gather, voice raised up in song
And eat and drink together, though some avoid the throng!

In little nooks and crannies, still the firelight creeps
And the warmth swift follows after, and into souls it steeps.
Whether watching out the window, or by the fireside
In hearth and home we gather, and in the warmth abide.

Let the storm rage against us. Let it’s bitter voices moan.
This home shields out the winter, for us together and alone.
When time yet comes for sleeping, we still shall feel no storm
We all take to our chambers, with snug blankets thick and warm.

Keeping Out the Cold copyright © Heather Strickler 2025 all rights reserved.