The garden’s looking good; a new hydrangea in place
Gazebo and parasol to safe my ageing skin, just in case.
The sun is beating down on all that moves and lives;
my heart and soul cry out with joy to hear the birds.
The little one will soon set out into the world;
despite her reticence, she plans with other girls,
a place to live, eat and sleep-visas and courses-
she really will be going at the end of August.
My nest will be empty for the first time ever;
but it is true-daughters never leave you.
Phone calls and texts-face time of course-
when money is short-look in mummy’s purse.
I’m not complaining; always happy to help-
after all, they didn’t ask to be born; how
long is a piece of string, before it comes to an end?
Worrying about them sometimes drives me round the bend.
As I sit here writing, I realise-the blessing is giving-
I’ll continue to give as long as I’m living.