GARDEN FANATIC:A Christmas garden tale

“ ‘Twas Christmas told the merriest tale … “ — Sir Walter Scott

“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!” — Clement Clarke Moore

‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through our plot

The lawns were all perfect, with nary a spot.

The flowers were planted by Catharine with care,

Her knowledge of color displaying much flair.

The bulbs were nestled all snug in their beds,

Just waiting for springtime to pop up their heads.

Roses still in winter bloom, looking their best

Had yet to settle down for their long winter’s rest.

When out on the street there arose such a clatter,

We sprang to the deck to see what was the matter.

Under the beds cats flew like a flash,

Austin, our son, said, “One more holiday bash.”

As I twisted my head, and was turning around …

Up the driveway the Plant Man came with a bound!

Dressed like a gardener from his head to his foot,

And his clothing covered with compost and root;

A sack full of dung he had flung on his back,

And he looked like a groundsman just carrying a pack.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,

And fed all our plants — then turned with a jerk …

And using his hand to turn off the hose,

He gave us a nod and plucked off a rose!

He sprang to his truck, his job now complete,

Our garden more sparkling, so beauteously replete.

But I heard him proclaim, as he drove out of sight...

“Happy gardening to all, and to all a good night!”

— With apologies to Clement C. Moore

May all of your holiday dreams come true. See you next time.