my least favorite garden garnishment
to harvest;
unlike pecans which just fall from the tree ready to crack,
black walnuts grow in thick green coats,
that turn black when mature;
the only way to harvest the delectable snack is to
peel that dark, staining coat off the nut.

My hands turned black and it was as permanent as
thick tar or black paint and just as unpleasant as anything
I can recall as I think over all the things we harvested;

but nothing can replace the memories of the great desserts
that showcased these nutty fruits.
Michellia D. Wilson 8/14/2016