Winter Cherries

Today I was surprised to see
Fresh cherries on display.
I never thought in February
They would come my way.

I know that fruits, once seasonal,
Are up for sale all year.
The cantaloupe I eat each morning
Makes that very clear.

But cherries are another beast
And therefore, my surprise;
These had the deep rich purple-red
Whose taste I could surmise.

The fruit man put one in my hand
And so I took a bite.
It was so firm and juicy
I could not hide my delight.

Though winter’s on the calendar
And hasn’t called it quits,
I scarfed a bowl of cherries
And the proof is in the pits!