I.
The newly grown leaves
Have clothed the sycamore tree
In fresh amazement.
II.
Outside the window,
Cherry tree smoldering
Just as the day breaks
III.
Dry riverbed winds
To a curtain of bright beads–
Trickling waterfall.
IV.
Floating gracefully–
A pale California newt
In a shrinking pool.
V.
There’s just enough breeze
To make a few leaves shiver
On the tall birch tree.
VI.
Flowering dogwood,
May I have your permission
To clip some branches?
VII.
A gust of lilac
creeps up from behind, yearning
To follow me home.
VIII.
Like a debutante —
Iris, in her lavish gown,
Curtsies to the clouds.
IX.
Afternoon stillness–
First taste of summer’s hot breath
Yellowing the grass.
X.
A late season rain–
Pine trees release their perfume,
Earth breathes fresh again.
