The Little Gathering

Once in the forest clearing
There was a little gathering.
Firstly, the bears arrived,
Already plump and eager for more food.
Next there came the hares,
Timid, shy, and also sweet!
Next was the elk, his spotted red coat
Gleaming in the bright morning sunshine.
After that there arrived a couple of young raccoons,
Still ready (and hungry?) for another feast,
As a juvenile raven perched above, hoping to get a scrap.
Then came the smell, the appetizing, scrumptious smell,
Brought by two friendly foxes who had just cooked lunch.
The duo were both instantly greeted by the waiting animals.
Everyone exclaimed, “At last, the food!”
And eagerly helped pile the table with . . .
    Giant apples drenched in honey,
    The mushiest biggest squash,
    Spiky chestnuts,
And juicy berries.
And after they finished piling their bellies with food,
The friends made each other laugh heartily by telling hilarious jokes,
By sharing their adventures and worries.
And suddenly their pressuring problems lifted some weight off them.