When I was girl I never asked for much, a hug, a smile
and a slice of freshly baked bread. Never aspired to be anything grand just wanted to sell Avon like my Nan,
because I loved her so much.
I felt safe there at her house with the playhouse in the garden
where cousins gathered in pretend. And, the woodshed with the swing that Pop would put up just for me
when I came at summer's begin.
My legs would swing
out through the door
flying through the air
filled with the smell of ocean,
as whales breached
and wafts of wood smoke
that rose through flues
to be carried by a northern wind.
I'd count the smooth painted rocks
that lined the lane
as the Collie filled with sand stood faithfully
as any dog would. Daisies and Blue Flags
grew tenaciously
amongst the craggy rocks.
Not a care in the world, as I'm wrapped tight
in a quilt in the rocking chair
at morning light
as Nan lit the fire.
Still in her pale nylon night gown
and donning her red hair.
Oh how I loved
the colour of her hair.
Just a girl
who loved colours such as yellow and orange
and the sweet taste of peppermint nobs,
that came in little brown paper bags. Brown eyes and plaits
in her favourite plaid dress
with skipping rope in hand. She always, felt the comfort
of holding her grandparents hands.
Many have left now,
generations sadly but the house still remains
next to the ocean
as whales breach
and memories linger
on the salty and smoky air.
I still don't ask for much,
maybe some would beg to differ,
but that doesn't matter.
Still, I would love a hug, a smile,
and yes,
even a slice of freshly baked bread.