Her 84th Birthday

It's her 84th birthday.
She's decided what she'd like
Is a sail in my 8 foot dinghy.

Never mind

that she's somewhat unsteady on her feet
that she has limited use of her arms.
I don't know how we'll get her into the boat
Let alone, back out!

Never mind

that I'm a novice sailor
and have never solo sailed before!
I arrive to pick her up.
She's ready for her first sail, all jaunty,

Thanks to Cookie.
(She's alive, thanks to Cookie.
She's thriving, thanks to Cookie.)
What do you do with a gutsy Mom?
You shake your head slightly in disbelief
Shrug your shoulders
Smile inside

love her... and take her sailing.

Karen Chapman Lenz 1-29-96