That Lady

in the rocking chair

is mom-

used to be

the Commander-in-Chief

over us as

we developed quicker

than tadpoles.

Going fishing again?

she’d ask

don’t forget to eat

what you caught

yesterday.

Mama knew

how to cook and knit

and make sure

her boys were able

to grow up strong.

Mind your manners

and don’t get grass stains

on your clothes

or don’t fall in the river

and eat these sandwiches

I made-

now grown up

with my own family

I can still hear her

in the retelling

as we share in laughter

and good memories.