songlines

Elena Isabella

we hold her close
and find familiar features

pursed mouth
arms up with fists clenched beside
her face as she sleeps
long toes
sudden startles

we soothe her when she cries
listen to sweet whimpers and squeaks and sighs
watch expressions flash across her face

so tiny
to carry our hopes and dreams
into new mornings

rock her in the sunshine

dance with her to the sound of Grandpa's violin
drifting down the stairway
spilling over the balcony