Daughter

When you were little, I kissed your sweet mouth,

Watched swings and toys take over the house,

Fussed over your hair and bathed and creamed,

‘Till your round little body was smooth and clean.

I knew each little crease of legs and arms,

Was totally enchanted by your smiles and charms.

I soothed your hurts and shared your tears,

Held you close to assuage your fears.

All through the years as you changed and grew,

Absorbed like a sponge and expanded, I knew

Your dependency on me was limited by time,

As you developed your style, yet still mimicked mine.

Slowly we parted, like a cell, and became two.

Slowly, you started your separate life anew.

Now that you’re grown, so lovely and wise,

I bask in the love I see in your eyes.

I relish times together, fulfilling and warm,

And succumb, once again, to your smiles and your charm.