We Brake for Lilacs
When the air is permeated
with luxurious lilac fragrance,
my daily walk takes longer
as I linger in lush perfume.
It’s hereditary. My mother,
in her eighties, admits to
climbing off her riding mower
for a blessed breath of bliss.
(written about 2000)

There’s a lilac at the end of our driveway (Sent you a pic) and I love mowing around it this time of year.
It’s a beauty, and looks like it gets plenty of sun. Our larger one is in too much shade. The other is beginning to have the same problem.
But do you get off your mower for a better sniff?
No, my allergies prevent me from getting too close.
I love the verse
I love this poem! The image of your mother getting of the riding lawnmower to smell the lilacs is just wonderful! When I was growing up in Vermont, our side porch was hidden by overgrown lilacs that extended above the porch roof. They were glorious!
I have cousins who live in the south that can’t find a lilac that will stand their weather. They really miss them in the spring.
I lived in the south for many years when my husband was in the Navy, and I also missed the lilacs. It was such a treat to experience them again when we moved back to New England. We have several bushes by the house.
Awe, an aroma of memory. Joy, I did the recording session for NPR. They didn’t want a straight read of the post, so I just spoke of her story using the post as a framework. Thanks for recommending me. God’s grip – Alan
Looking forward to it. They won’t allow me off script. hmmm
Lilacs are all in bloom here too