The Frost Ball

My Mama was invited to dress the Garden for the Frost
She said I might come too if I would not be cross.

The air was crisp and new, the ground was hard and cold.
She carried sheets and blankets. The clothespins I could hold.

The Strawberries we covered, so they might go to bed.
The Peppers and Tomatoes were goin' to the Ball instead.

We wrapped up branching shoulder and peeping leafy toe,
They seemed to be a modest bunch, nothing they would show.

Same dressed alone while others, shared their trains with those nearby.
Such veils, and shawls, and scarves I saw. I gave a little sigh.

I wished that me and Mama could go to their fair Ball.
But Mama said "Twas only for the Garden Plants each Fall."

We had to go inside then, and let them go their way.
But later I did watch them out the window as I lay.

I saw them dance and shiver in the darkness of the yard.
Mama said I couldn't go, but that I could be their guard.

So now I warn you, "You can look, but don't go nigh!"
The Garden likes their Frost Ball but they are very shy.