Dearest Mommie

I can remember you round , but when you left me, you were but a bird.

Like a nestling.

Yesterday I curled up on my bed,

just as you used to do

-- my head on the pillow, the pillow folded on my shoulder,

my knees tucked up and the coverlet I am resting on

snuggled around me -- like a nest.

I remember napping with you

except you were the only one

doing the napping.

I remember doing my homework with you and it was a joy,

you, the ever patient teacher.

I remember you boating with daddy, golfing with daddy, having coffee and donuts -- powdered sugar donuts -- with daddy; just going for a ride with daddy. Ever ready to go with.

And when we went shopping, you preferred to sit in the shoe department

while I went to try on whatever it was I thought I had to have

and then parade it persuasively in the shoe department

for you to see.

And I remember singing hymns on the way to the Lake

and how much you loved being with family

-- how very much you loved your family.

Dearest mommy

I lost you a long time ago

but I remember.

And while you are in heaven, mommy, give daddy a hug from me and kiss my sweetheart and then I expect you will be watching Wheel of Fortune or Jeopardy and knowing all the answers OR playing bridge and eating Cheese Nibs and drinking scotch.

At least, I hope so.