R. rhabarbarum

genus Rheum

species rhabarbarum

more commonly

referred to as rhubarb

a coveted plant

perfect for the filling of hearts and bellies

morning constitutional  midway

standing in the glow of a misty sunrise

amidst the lawn and garden

section of the old country

i press flowers

and things with plans to be fruitful

into my sketchbook of recipes

there is a peach tree where memaw

threw her

peach pits at the corner of the ancient fence line

determined it grew and brings with it

housewarming gifts

a pear tree with a partridge

a strawberry patch with grinning blossoms

and cabbage already reaching for the son in the garden

roses

french hollyhocks

mandevilla climbing the light post

irises

lilies

rhododendron

and my grandmother’s

beautiful grapevines

further past the pines

much to my surprise

a patch of

distinguished sturdy rhubarb

when the calendar

is correct

i shall make a pie

baked for sharing

all my love

apron strings full

rolling pin ballet in flour

homemade

welcome mats

are for

using