It was a great 3 weeks back in my hometown, visiting with friends, family and settling Lao-lao into his new home with my parents.

               I especially enjoy summertime in my small town due to the summer band concerts on Friday evening and the many gorgeous yards that are so painstakingly cared for by our loving gardeners.  This also includes my mother, whose old-fashioned array of tall grasses, carefully placed flowers and forever-blooming specialties keep the back yard looking spry and chipper all the way into fall.

            Her only sore spot (and the sore spot of others as well) are the Japanese beetles, who tend to attack with a vengeance.  She was out there numerous times each day, flicking the little metallic-colored winged beasties into empty yogurt cups filled with water.  

            Every gardener has his or her own way of dealing with these invaders from Japan.  Drowning is one but another might work just as well. 

            Years ago, inspired by my fascination of Gypsies, I came up with a beetle curse.  Circling the yard in the early spring and throughout the summer, my mother and I were once known to chant away our sing-song warning in the hopes of hexing those  who dared stray into our midst.  Now, it’s my mom who takes on this task. 

            Does it work? 

           Well, each time it’s used, my mom swears there aren’t as many beetles around as the year before.

            For those who wish to try it, be my guest!  (It’s a bit graphic and violent for PG viewing.  You might want to steer clear of more youthful ears when you use it.)

The Japanese Beetle Curse

By Connie Wieck

Curses, curses, beetle hoards.
Suppress your sex drives,

Sin no more!
Caste your lust looks hither, yon

On neighbors’ roses and beyond.

Curses, curses.  Heed my cry.

 Pass by this garden, lest you die!

Armed with hoses, rakes and sprays

We’ll win this battle and end your days.

Curses, curses, beetle bands.

Watch your backs for vengeful hands.

This warning comes from very near

With one clear message:

Don’t appear.

            From China, here’s wishing you a lovely August, full of cool breezes and less beetle chewings. 

            Be looking for news from my new placement in Guangxi, Little Flower adventures and updates about Lao-lao’s adjustments to family life without me.

            Ping An (Peace), everyone!