This haiku was written following a family hike in Green Lakes State Park on a very typical wintery day. We were enjoying the stillness as we walked through the pine trees. The silence was suddenly broken by several hikers as they passed us on the path. Their footsteps echoed loudly, the broken silence palpable.

Haiku has become a lifelong passion. I particularly enjoy re-reading my poems, which became mini memories of many “moments in time.”

I am currently working on a children's book on haiku, tentatively titled “Earth Poems: The Nature of Haiku.”

As a psychologist and former elementary school teacher, recently retired from Liverpool School District, I have had the opportunity to study, write, and teach haiku over the years. This chosen haiku was written on a beautiful day while visiting the Swan Pond in Manlius.

As a member of the Haiku Society of America, and CNY Art Guild, whether writing poetry or painting a landscape, both mediums represent capturing a moment in time, with the hope that others share in the experience. I hope to compile previously written haiku into a children's publication. Until then, I will continue to enjoy writing this wonderful form of poetry.