Isabella

how could i see only darkness
when all you’ve been trying to do
is show me your shine?

in our depths we see the light
emanating in those early moments
when first you came into the world.

their voices at your imaginative nature
and stolid toddler independence
still ring true as you toddle through school.

i will try to let loose this light,
this new view of you, if you will forgive me.
perhaps i must forgive myself first.

Mythili

as usual
you seem unaware of your surroundings.
the spring wind
that tore a bite from our kite
tries to bear down on us
as we pedal home.
you pedal away behind me
spouting out your array
of fairy-tale, Barbie-doll stories,
not even noticing
the slow and heavy pace
up the never-ending hill,
the long breaths stolen from my lungs,
your world stronger than all weaknesses.

Riona

you fit perfectly
into the shirt Isabella wore at two
and into the crevice of my lap
for our daily cuddle time.
yes, you’re the baby
and though i shouldn’t baby you
it is so hard to resist
your chunky soft cheeks
your peace talking ways
your innocence fully masked
as i hold your tiny body in mine
just as i did when you really were
my little baby.