Nona

O how I hold her dear.

No one else chases

the bad away like her.

Rocking me to sleep.

Humming a soft tune.

The same I hum to my sisters.

Weekends are not the same without my dear Nona’s voice.

Doing more for me then any wealth could.

Days long ago flash in my mind.

A basement

not so far away.

Me on my stool

her by the sink

laughing as I make yet another dough necklace.

A child’s smile on my lips

happy that I made her laugh,

proud to wear the apron she made me.

Scurrying feet run

out of that basement kitchen

with it’s heavy oven.

Always feeling like a summer day.

Dashing into the basement living room.

Dancing as she takes out her fabrics

she set aside for her princess.

I take the fabrics,

I take the pins.

Dreaming I am her.

Making beautiful clothes.

Rugged pants.

Fluffy jackets.

Frilly dresses.

Sparkling gowns.

Breathtaking wedding gowns.

I pin the mannequin

here and there.

Ah yes my favorite.

Yellow satiny material.

Shimmering in the fluorescent light.

Wrapped lovingly around the torso.

But I see it a light airy spring dress.

I see myself dancing around as my Nona beams.

So much pride through such wise eyes.

One day I will make this.

One day she shall see the woman I become.

All because my Nona helped.

Sauntering over to her

I look at myself in the tall mirror.

I wish I had her red hair.

I giggle as she has me join her at the machine.

Yes! A new outfit for me.

I cringe when I see the needle

but bear for her, trying it on.

I watch as she sews , asking how it works.

I blink my eyes.

Back to now.

I sit at my machine

My Nona watching me.

I look at the dress.

Not yellow but mine just the same.

This woman now

Teaches me more then skill,

but life.

I remember back and realize

She’s advised me on life since the day I was born.

I smile cutting the final thread.

Time now to go cook.

No more dough necklaces.