The End of the Game

I have seen lawns shimmering in the evening light;
all so uniquely different, not one remotely the same.
The allure of their beauty is indeed a wonderful sight,
but now my friends, I am reaching the end of the game.

My fellow players have inspired me with their wit and skill.
Some have produced shots entitling everlasting fame.
Does it not sometimes feel that we never seem to have had our fill?
But this, my friends, this for me is the end of the game.

That it is an end in every sense, is more than true
since I have decided to bid a timely goodbye
to this happy, talented and mobile crew.
Matching this entertainment elsewhere won’t be easy, however hard I try.

So goodbye to my croquet friends old and new;
a special word for Andrew, for planning it all,
and thanks to all my hosts and hostesses too.
Have fun next year, better still, have a ball!