by George A. Hancock
Photos by Bob Hancock

August Clouds

Clouds create a darker dawn
For runners skipping the yawn
This group is up and on the road
Pursuing the next run episode.

August clouds darken our street
Runners carefully place their feet
Avoiding road holes and the things
That produce crashing down swings.

This runner uses a rechargeable light
It illuminates my morning road flight
Also allowing motorists to see me
During my pre-dawn running spree.

Those August clouds are still warm
And the bugs occasionally swarm
After this sweaty running guy
Who swats while uttering a sigh.

Morning darkness will only grow
Longer as we run past a row
Of trees still sporting green
Adding color to the road scene.

August 2023

Tuesday begins August’s run
It’s dark without the dawn sun
Summer’s last month then fall
Arrives with its foliage brawl.

Football teams are in camp
Practicing even if it’s damp
Most local schools open soon
Creating some student swoon.

Early August is vacation time
Folks get away on their dime
Relaxing before the school year
And autumn’s weather veer.

Retired folks like me run on
Seeking that next perfect dawn
Vacation time is now every day
The school year is never in the way.

August weather remains hot
Slowing our daily running trot
We tolerate it and continue on
Some run early minus that yawn.

August Heat

For many, summer was late
Early summer wasn’t first rate
This runner loves the cool
And not that summer drool.

Then, the August heat is on
With drenching sweat at dawn
The humidity level has no roof
And I run like that Disney Goof.

Staying hydrated is the key
Be careful remains the plea
What to do? The heat is on
We become a sweaty pawn.

Dri-fit clothes are the best
Protection from the heat pest
So, we run carefully along
Amidst August’s sweaty song.

Soon, this weather will change
Most will never get the mange
Despite our daily sweaty scratch
As summer leaves our patch.

August Roads

Summer heat buckles roads
In places earning episodes
Of surprise and even shock
Leaving many to take stock.

My dawn run remains OK
The heat is lower that way
Seldom do I see roads sizzle
Yet, later on it’s a fry drizzle.

Black macadam soaks up heat
And can really toast two feet
Runners need to run with care
Study the scene and be aware.

Maybe, it’s time for the park
The shade cools your run lark
Nearby trails are also good
Running under shady wood.

Our August roads will cool
Yes, moving on is the rule
So, tolerate it and run on
Summer will pass the baton.

Categories: Poet's Corner

Tags: 2023, George A Hancock