The Frozen Pond: Fractures in the Ice

The frozen pond,
A familiar habitat for beaver 

In the open countryside.
A glassy mirror across the icy pond
Reflecting mysterious, winter sun rays
Dancing in the blowing snow.
Minute cracks in the clear ice;
Crystal-like fragility.

Fresh animal footprints in the new snow,
Rabbits, deer silently betraying their presence,
Hiding among majestic, snow-laden trees.

A huge, oak log waiting beside a burning campfire;
The frozen pond, a skater's paradise.
Masters of proficiency
Carving symmetrical patterns in the sheer ice.

Shy lovers gently linked arm-in-arm,
Synchronized skaters
Gliding and swaying rhythmically 

In the romantic, winter moonlight.
Laughter of noisy, happy children,
Awkwardness of new skates;
A fine-tuned, balancing act.

Parent's gathering, hovering close by,
Enjoying the balmy sunshine,
Delighting in the antics of their youngsters.

Rising temperatures creating puddles; wet feet.
A sudden, loud, cracking sound
Breaking the silence,
Re-echoing through the wilderness.
A huge fracture,
A precarious crevice on the frozen pond;
Chunks of free-floating ice.

Beaver dams creating flooding problems.
New danger,
Safety of children, skaters,
A serious concern.

Country ponds can be a source of delight and present danger.