by Linda Ann Nickerson

Created on: September 26, 2007   Last Updated: September 27, 2007

A SURPRISE ATTACK

My weeds were growing tall and strong
In places they did not belong;
So I set out to right this wrong
And nearly heard the angels' song.

Suspended from a yellow bloom
In deepest camouflage costume,
I saw a monster, I presume,
Requiring extra-long leg-room.

His legs were hairy, bent on track;
This creepy, crawly maniac.
With yellow stripes, mounted on black,

He seemed intent upon attack.

This hairy creature with eight feet
Whom I had never hoped to meet
Was eating flies and spinning sweet,
As I most quickly did retreat.

My trowel must have tapped a leaf,
The web, it wiggled, ever brief.
Mister arachnid (Oh, good grief!)
Began to run, just like a thief.

First, I began to fuss and fret,
Then looked him up, out on the Net.
And, though I trembled in cold sweat,
The spider posed no poison threat.

I clicked the mouse with clammy palm:
A garden spider, minor qualm.
As I read on, I caught the bomb;
This fearful creature was a mom!

Aboard the web, not far away,
The spider labored on display.
I had to grab a can and spray,
Preventing spiderlings one day!

I'm vigilant for a surprise;
My garden, now I scrutinize.
Because each spider multiplies,
I dare not ever compromise.

Although she's gone, I'm on alert.
I'm itching in my undershirt.
I pull on gloves to dig in dirt,
With spray can ready for a squirt.

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