Innocent white petals first unfold.
Pink hearts softly begin to show.
Soon her petals redden in the sun.
All innocence comes undone.
She begins to slowly grow old.
Autumn stealthily takes its toll.
Finally, she turns russet and gold.
Such changes offer chance to survive
The winter of a life which thrived.
Lesson from the garden to live by.
annarino writes 
Hi Louise,Such a nice poem! . And a beautiful picture.  Is this an Oakleaf Hydrangea? I love how the oakleaf blooms. I didn’t know these would turn red. I think I pass one on my neighborhood walk. I hope to notice it this fall if I go that way. An update on Rose, my rough collie: She was adopted 7 days ago! She went to Nancy, my boss from the library who has put off having a dog for years bc she watched her 2 grandson twice a week until now when they are in school full time. They were terrified of dogs, she said.So, Nancy has her mild mannered, sweet tempered, Rose (now known as Jess) to share her days with and her grandsons seem to be more than okay with her. I’m attaching a picture of Jess helping with dinner. I hope all is well with you. Love,Cherri