gardening

Raking old annuals—
dried and nipped from the cold of winter.
In a state where even perennials
can be annuals, or annuals can be houseplants.
The ground softens with the rain of May,
as memories are slowly scooped away
into buckets, and discarded as mulch.

Creating new plants—
sowing seeds into raised beds, and excited
for fresh growth and prosperous vegetables.
A chapter of last year’s crop has closed,
but the seeds are already springing through
compost like deer over fences.
No unwelcomed guests, but smiles in the backyard
of those whom are profoundly loved.