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As I walk my dog through the streets of Melrose, I am amazed at the wild life in many of our local gardens.
Just the other day I saw this huge cat sitting majestically in the midst of these bushes on Damon Street. Solid and gray, I expected her to start purring as we passed by the yard. There was another cat in the yard also but this was only a cub. A small lion cub staring at the passing traffic daring you to get any closer. This soon to be king of the jungle was showing its courageous look to the two lions guarding the tulips across the street. This hard shell turtle with the green head and legs was almost lost between the greenery in one of the gardens on Howard Street. It appeared to be searching for something to eat as it stuck its head around the petals of the Hosta plant. The frog, sitting cross-legged, was enjoying the sunshine on the doorstep of this house, also on Howard Street. Among the mulch in one of the yards I saw a scary looking grasshopper. Six legs and beady eyes just watching, for what I do not know. The cuddly bear sat smiling as the world passed it by. It seemed to be waiting for someone to pick it up and hold it close, as children do. Perhaps before the summer has gone by someone will. Close by, a gray squirrel was minding its own business just munching on an acorn. Not to be ignored, but not to be bothered either. The shiny brown bunny rabbit was ready to leap from the shadows to get the grass on the other side of the surrounding cement barricade. But it was very patient lest another larger animal detect his movements. On the other hand, the leaping frog was definitely ready to go. Just get near his rock and he is gone through the mulch and into the flower patch. I am lucky to be able to enjoy this majestic blue heron in our lovely water garden. She seems to watch over the koi as they play beneath her feet. The beautiful buck with his powerful rack seems to be very comfortable among the birch and the azaleas in this garden on Boardman Avenue. Though not a member of the wild kingdom, this angel is checking the list of all the animals of the kingdom. Her choir is making sure that they are kept safe within the confines of their respective gardens so all the walkers in the area can enjoy their beauty. As you walk or slowly drive around Melrose, or your hometown, take a few moments to look at the lovely gardens and their creative sculptures. I am sure it will be worth your time. July 1, 2005
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