Seasons

I was running errands today and found myself by Munsinger Gardens, a gem of a public gardens that is spread out along the Mississippi River.  I have been there before, but not yet this year, an error on my part.  I should have had picnics and walks or at least photo shoots over the summer.  It really is beautiful.

Would of, could of, should have…the sad part is that summer is really slipping by.  The news is full of portents of an early fall.  The corn is at the dent stage, apples are being picked, and the State DNR already has its “fall color map” on its website.  In town, there are a few turned leaves, and even at the garden I noticed fallen leaves.  That said, the garden is still spectacular, and the rich colors were perfect for some photos.

The funny thing was that they pictures almost didn’t happen—it was an unplanned visit, and I hadn’t thought to bring a camera.  At first I thought about heading home for a camera, but then I thought I had to have a camera somewhere.  I did actually have a few—my Iphone, my Ipad, and my Macbook Air.  Oh, and one other one that was under my front seat, and that is the one that I used.

There have been legions of poets who have written poems about the turning of fall, and if you Google “fall poems poetry” thousands show up.  But I was thinking of  Japanese Haiku, those gems of 17 syllables.  I’m no master but I can count to seventeen, even if it isn’t in Spanish.  Here are few that I thought of while walking tonight.

Under construction

Or

Hey, you write one—the chalkboard is open.  Write one on the theme of the coming fall or the ending summer.  I will post the best.  I promise not to have Mr. Mittag, my 9^th grade English teacher grades yours like he once graded mine.  Since I I showed you mine, you should feel comfortable showing me your (poem).