Children of the Summer Garden

CHILDREN OF THE SUMMER GARDEN In the lazy days of summer When heat streams up in afternoons Come into the season’s garden – Nature’s outdoor living room. Early riser, blue Morning Glory vine Opens at dawn and sometimes at night; Unfurling his petals, fades by afternoon Somehow he can’t wait for the moon. Wakes up early with the sun, Daylily flowers just for fun; Blooms in the morning, sometimes at night, Brilliant colors welcoming light. How devoted the Lavender, Coming back year after year; He tips his hat, then waves his hand, And says to us “Bonjour.” Tall, graceful, regal Hollyhock Standing, waiting, along the walk; Nods in greeting at ev’ry guest Words of welcome in her best party dress. You turn your face to catch the light Morning dawn, your delight; The midday sun never too bright For the Sunflower reaching into the sky. Bright and cheerful Black-eyed Susan Its seems you grow all over; In gardens and beside the road Happy flower, quite the rover. Stately, blue Delphinium He bows with grace along the fence; Elegant flowers of early summer Politely greeting with deference. Lambs Ear, soft as eiderdown, Easily growing all over town; Lining the borders of sweet summer gardens, Velvety leaves in grey-green so hardy. Snapdragon looks fierce, like he might bite, Guarding the fence by day and by night; Stands up straight, so proud and tall But truth be told he’s friendly to all. Thoughtful Pansy sends us greetings, Loving thoughts, well wishes also; In her sweet face mirrored her feelings - Her open smile sets her eyes aglow. Blue Periwinkle – flower of friendship, Joining two hearts in sweet memories, Thriving in heat and in the cool shade Embracing ladybugs and fat honey bees. Impatiens dancing in a window box Or underneath a shady tree Colors jumping out in a greeting Smiling and vibrant - just for me. Spirited Freesia, distant cousin of Iris, Born on the continent Africa; Grows up tall with leaves like spears Shares perfume with the greatest of cheer. Nestled along the country roads A dainty umbrella of white flowers grows; Queen Anne’s Lace loves the of summer Not afraid of midsummer thunder. Fearsome Gladiola – flowering sword - Makes a statement with his spikes; Garden watchman – never bored Have no fear when “Glads” grows near. Dalia wears of bright colored hat, Small or large or in-between; In the wild or in the garden So welcome this girl in any floral scene. Lovely perfume to grace summer nights Tiny white flowers bright as starlight In hushed garden beds or high on a fence Crickets and Star Jasmine sing in duets.