Dusts of snow edge the earth,
uneven lines mark sun-warmed pavers.

With under-parts protected, statuary
gather new relief, dying grasses open

in broad pompons, perennial stalks crisscross
into heavy mounds of gold, pine tufts

reach out in a first, mourning grace.
All else hushes, runs for cover,

but our small, neglected garden unfolds,
yawns wide welcoming arms.