Approximately 1988
“Daddy, take me fishing.”
You’d wake me up at 4
And we’d move round so quietly
And then sneak out the door.
And with the moon to guide us
We’d find the perfect spot.
It didn’t really matter
If we caught a fish or not.
“Daddy, can I play some bridge?”
I’d beg with sheer delight.
And you would guide my little hand
Until I got it right.
When I was small, to reach the cards,
I’d sit upon your lap.
Yet soon you’d say, “You’re on your own,”
Ad you’d go take a nap.
I remember all the little things
That made you so unique-
Your drive, your laugh, the way you’d herd
The cattle across the creek.
And sitting on the tractor rim
While you would mow all day-
Those memories are still so strong
They’ll never go away.
And even though we’re far apart
I always strive to be
The daughter that you’d hoped to have,
And, yet, uniquely me.
I’m proud of who I came from;
You helped to carve the way.
Please know I’ll always love you
Each and every day.