In The Master's Service

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SUGAR-APPLE SUMMERTIME

Sister Peggy Hood

"Sugar apples" in summertime;
And, bushels of tomatoes, I've seen;
Collards, we dipped in spring water,
Fresh and crisp, dark, rich green;

Peaches, for cobblers, or to be canned;
Apple slices, drying in sun;
Skipping barefoot down the lane;
Playing tag: my, what fun!

Checking puddles to find tadpoles;
And, the ponds, for pollywogs;
Making fishhooks out of "straight pins";
Crossing creeks on fallen logs;

Catching white-faced bumblebees,
And crickets - fish bait for the boys;
Chasing lightning bugs at dark:
Sweet simplicity! Country joys!

Aproned Mother in the kitchen;
Pa, in old hat and overalls
Checking corn in silk and tassel;
And, much, much more, I recall.

Evenings spent out on the front porch;
Hearing the song of whip-poor-will;
Memories of sweet Southern traditions,
Sometimes call, my thoughts, to fill.

A “sugar-apple" summertime to you!
Or, one of equal joys, I pray.
The good LORD smile on you and keep you
In His loving kindness today!

© Peggy Hood 6/1/06