Darkness falls

and everything stops.

Even the running creek stalls.

The swishing of the wind in the trees

quietens to a gentle breeze.

Along in the distance

an owl makes his presence known

with almost a bossy tone.

Curious, I walk closer to the sound.

I look up and that was just what I found.

He looks down

from up in the tree,

and turns his head to look at me.

It was then that I realized

what a friend he truly was.

For he watches over my yard

with his big keen eyes,

and each night dutifully spies.

I whisper thank you

as I walk away,

and he hooted his welcome,

Hoo, Hoo, Hoo.

I walk to the edge of the path,

and stop to imagine

all the little animals

that I often see playing,

 nestled warm and cozy

 in their lairs.

Suddenly, the path

becomes awake

with rustling noises.

I quietly whisper,

goodnight to all of my little friends.

I turn to walk away

and hear the chatter of wrens.

I walk further a few steps

and decide to

sit down on my porch.

I hear a neighbor’s dog

let out a few yeps.

Of all the wonders

that can be found

in my backyard,

not even thunder

has been able

 to change this atmosphere.

I sit quietly and enjoy

the night life

that is activated in my backyard.

The owl in the tree tops

is still on guard.

So I take my cue,

leaving watch to him.

I say goodnight Mr. Owl

and he responds with Hoo Hoo!