Hollyhocks

I have been so excited about

The hollyhocks that were planted

Along the side of the house.

I saw the last of them in the fall

And I smiled with glee.

I've tried to grow them before

And both of my neighbors too,

But to no avail.

Here, it looked like I could.

The stems were the first to show

Their green early this spring.

Quickly they grew tall and bushy

With their lovely large leaves.

And the flower buds became many.

Each day I have been checking

Are they here yet?

Are they here,

These favorite flowers of mine.

And yesterday,

When I was not expecting it

There, under a leaf, was the first pink bloom.

And today, two more may open.

Sometimes it surprises me

How much joy 

Such a small thing can bring.
I think I'll go out and check them again.
(Yes, two more have opened.)