Berukoka (Apricots) Poem by Cherie Mort

I look up at the twisting branches of our apricot tree
And see many yellow-orange fruits
Maybe if they're ripe today, I'll pick some
But I have to keep the squirrels at bay for now
If they should eat but only one or two
Chances are, there'll be none left for me!

Perhaps I ought to run and fetch the hose
Even if they do start munching, it's
Not too late to stop them now
Then maybe I can salvage some apricots for jam
And I can spread the jam
Mornings after on a piece of bread
Even if my hands get stained bright orange
The flavor of the jam will be well worth it
Ever sweet and sour, tart you might say,
Ripening on a tree