The brown, lacy leaves of Virginia creeper and wild grape,
the decimated rose blossoms,
the aftermath of the Japanese invaders.
I DECLARE WAR
It took several summers in a row of the soapy buckets, but the numbers really have dwindled.
Dare I confess: how gratifying it is to seize one by the head, squeeze, and watch its guts issue forth like toothpaste from a tube....

Your freewrite is epic, as always.
The Mother (not named) - the pesky daughters doubting her ability to live alone, remain independent - the Mother's confidence (she's almost saucy, feeling triumphant, ready to vindicate herself) followed by the door opening to the devastation and emptiness.
You always encapsulate so much emotion in so few words.
Bravo!
(and hugs)