Garden Chocolate

Blush roses entangle the east fence,
Lavender lilacs bend the west.
Tomato nightshade entwined with
Velvety morning glory,
royal purple and twilight blue
Loop the back chain-link expanse
Where dad’s work truck sleeps.

We are here and ready:
The gaggle of girls
Gathered round the tire tracks, just off the alley
Rain has gifted us a pond. 

We crouch then bend and reach to
Squelch, collecting this
“Chocolate batter”, puddle-born
and scoop to pans
circle and silver. 

Our small hands, empty of pencils but,
baptized in mud.
Far from the forgotten home school lessons
Or any other unpleasantries. 

A confectioner's dream:
We layer tiers upon tiers
Simple joy instead of tears.
Wedding feasts topped
With berries and blossoms. 

Each sweet memory, plucked from an assortment of 
Broken alley glass,  

It was my garden of beauty,
Safe and sound.

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ELENA LIMOGES is a writer born and bred in Chicago. She tells stories of God’s goodness with an emphasis on home, beauty, and belonging. When she is not caring for her two small sons, you can find her cooking for friends, delving into audiobooks, and discovering new coffee shops around the city. Connect with her at https://elenalimoges.com/ and on Instagram @elenalimogeswriter.