image

The morning, chill and gray,
turned me inward seeking warmth,
some reassurance that winter
is still a few months at bay.

After the requisite morning walk,
my pup settled on the deck
for breakfast and bunny-watch,
my eyes wandered beyond the railing

to see three tall hydrangea blooms
in full autumn blaze – every shade
of deep purple, lavender, violet -
the dark to light blues of an entire summer

rising tall above the bush’s rough-edged
green leaves marooning already 
in the cooling nights of just-October.
As is my custom to keep fresh flowers

on the table, I harvested these
late season blues bringing all their hues
of experience and hope to my view
within, up close and reassuring.
swb