Sweetpeas in the Snow

Nanna is 91.
70 years a wife.
“Life is fast,” she said.
“You have to keep moving…
But keep one eye looking over your shoulder.”

Mother of 4
7 grandchildren
“Clever girl,” she said,
Reading the book.
“Life is beautiful, find joy
Every day.  There is always
Something to be glad for.”

Fallen 3 times.
30 minutes visitation.
She was asleep when grandpa went.
No negotiating the time slot-
Even if it is during her mid afternoon nap.

Day 5 in hospital.
1 visitor at a time.
But her mind confuses her-
Who has been? Seen?
How long in-between?

The numbers shrink-
No visits now.
Cruel paradox
Of a positive which only
Yields negatives.

200 miles away.
All the flowers are blossoming Nanna,
Even the sweetpeas in the snow.
You’d love your courtyard now.
I hope you see it in your dreams.

“I’ve been so lucky,” she’d say.
“Laugh every day and look after yourself.”
“We’ve been lucky too, Nanna. Keep going.”
Keep going