"Well, hello, Little Lady," Spring announces
with the tip of a hat,
"did ya notice me?"

Well, yes, it's warmer than usual,
so I felt it
Didn't see it until the scent caught me,
a lasso pulled taut,
making me back-step a few paces
until yes,
I noticed

Already?
I knew they were coming,
but already?

Dermatophyllum secundiflorum

Rich purple bloom clusters
hang like oversized
Christmas ornaments on short,
shrubby trees

Inhaling her sweet scent isn't necessary
she's everywhere
even if you aren't standing near her

Texas mountain laurel

she's like lilac,
but instead of dainty heels,
she wears boots
with spurs

she's like lilac,
but with attitude
don't mess with her 
like ya don't mess with Texas

Don't underestimate her strength
underneath all her beauty
she snaps spring to attention
drawing honeybees
into her presence
her signature scent 
announcing

Here I am!