Wednesday, 24 February 2010

Grandchild, grandmother

The baby snuffled in her sleep;
sighed, then wriggled.
Wakeful, the grandmother
heaved her body from the chair,
wrinkled eyes creasing with worry
watching the soft eyelids

flutter. The child stirred again,
murmuring softly, tiny lips sucking.
The old woman soothed the girl
with song, breathing below her breath,
forgotten melodies revived
unbidden.

The baby smiled; sweet mouth
curved up, contented
in the warmth of the crib.
It was cold in the room; the
grandmother hugged herself
against the chill

as she reached for her shawl.
Carefully, she lifted the baby,
Snuggling her against her breast
wrapping her tightly.
Now both of them would be warm again.
Together.

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