Leaves of Bloodroot
slowly unfurl, their blooms
of white happily shine in the sun
Scillias of azure blue abuzz
teased open by bees
thirsty, longing for nourishment
Nails short and ragged
clogged with rich black earth,
a gardeners’ badge of honour
Robins follow freshly turned soil
listening, watching for a sign
of twisting movement
Pale green leaves shoot upward
buds of Daffies, tender to the touch
patiently wait for a cloudy day
Juncos perform two steps forward
one step back, digging
for winters leftover seeds
Spent Hydrangea heads
crumpled, cast aside
cover the ground with confetti
Over wintered compost
natures black gold, dug out
to replenish tired beds
Muddy shoes lined up
on the garden bench to dry
soles skyward, warming in the sun
While the tired and dirty gardener
eases back onto her throne
relaxed with face to the sun, she smiles
