Mr. Toad

There’s this giant living in one of my plant containers on my back deck. He doesn’t have a golden goose - as far as I know - or a beard. Also as far as I know, he could be a she. I will refer to him as a he only because I think I love him and he reminds me of a wise ol’ grandpa. I noticed the big guy a few weeks ago down on the ground and only recently discovered his little bury, keep-cool hole in this particular plant pot. I keep the soil in the pot moist, but not soaking wet so that this big dude - Mr. Toad - I know, so original - can have a dark, cool spot to hide in out of the heat of the sun. We couldn’t be luckier.

Look at the palm of your hand.

That’s how big he is.

I assume he’s been around for a while, since he’s a hoss. Aaaand the fact that he hops/climbs/walks up the human-sized steps to get to his home means he’s one little big badass. Imagine jumping up onto your porch or deck from a standing position on the ground but a couple of feet further up.

And then do that five more times.

Yeah. I couldn’t do that. But he can do the equivalent for his size and more.

Heck, he may have a vacation home down under my deck for all I know. He seems to have all he needs. Various insects to consume, a really great plant pot to dig down into, fans (I’m his biggest). Thing is, he disappears for a day or two at a time. I miss him when he goes “away”. But then he shows back up at night, catching bugs or I see him poking his head or a leg out of his hidey-hole. He’s the best.

Mr. Toad, if you could read, I’d write you a poem. Hey, maybe I’ll just do that right now.

Mr. Toad,

I love your every lump and bump.

I love your eyes, so round and dark

I watch where I step here and there,

In my heart, you have made your mark.

Thank you for the glimpses of your world,

Thank you for making your home without fuss

In the deck planter so close.

Thank you

for

tolerating

us.

I’m not a poet but Mr. Toad deserves recognition for how great he truly is.

I welcome you to add to the fun, send to me a poem. Is there a toad in your life? A special frog? A hedgehog? Tell me about it. I’d love to hear.