When a family gathers
A mother must wear many hats.
When a large family gathers
The beat can tip toward chaos.
“Mum, Roxie’s not doing well –
I am taking her to the vet –
Hope I won’t have to put her down.
Will you come with me?”
“Mum, the turkey is done –
Will you come out and show us
Once again how to make
Your special gravy?”
“Mum, My statement
Of purpose for grad school
Needs some work…can I
Ask you to give it a look?”
Now day is winding down
It’s time for me to sit
By the fire, put my legs up
And hold a sleepy baby.
– jml (2010)
