The Rhododendron Bells

Across the warm night’s subtle dusk,
Where linger yet the purple light,
And perfume of the wild, sweet musk--
So softly glowing, softly bright,
Tremble the rhododendron bells,
The rose-pink rhododendron bells.

Tall, slender trees of evergreen
That know the winds of Puget Sea,
And narrow leaves of satin’s sheen,
And clusters of sweet mystery--
Mysterious rhododendron bells,
Rare, crimson rhododendron bells.

Oh, hearken--hush! And lean thy ear,
Tuned for an elfin melody,
And tell me now, dost thou not hear
Those voices of pink mystery--
Voices of silver-throated bells,
Of breathing, rhododendron bells.

--Ella Higginson

11:57:42 AM     

Belle

Looks as if Santa may have left an early Christmas present on our doorstep this morning!  Cutest little puppy ever...all creamy and fuzzy, and certainly very friendly.  Haven't a clue where she came from.  No collar - no ID.  Maybe she belongs to one of the neighbors...but by her appearance, I'd say she's been either dropped off by some uncaring person or run away from home.  Scott's already giving me his own little puppydog look, and I know exactly what he's thinking...."can we keep her??"  He's offered to call local vets inquiring if someone has lost a puppy fitting her description and post her picture at nearby businesses.  In the meantime, she's sacked out on a rug in the den, having eaten a full meal and the burrs removed from her fur.  I must admit, she's a pretty little thing.  Her temporary " I-might-actually-get-to-live-here" name is Belle.

11:35:59 AM     

"If a dog jumps in your lap, it is because he is fond of you; but if a cat does the same thing, it is because your lap is warmer." --Alfred North Whitehead

9:31:57 AM