I walked along the beach today, and there I saw them all;

including the latest lost: little Tiven, Tommy, Michaela & my Paul.

 

Grandma painted at her easel, set upon the dune.

Uncle Eddie bent in half, laughing like a loon,

 

Oliver growled and chased birds, still thinking he’s a dog,

Tiven gathered sand dollars, arranged them on a log.

 

Michaela watched a mermaid hit the waves with a fancy spin,

Tommy just looked on with his I-have-a-secret grin.

 

Paul gathered his beach finds in a pile to take home,

I walked along, bulging pockets, trying to memorize this poem.

 

I see that look in your eyes. You really think I’m crazy now–I know you do,

but if you walk the beach or woods you’ll have a chance to see them too.

 

copyright 2013 Patti Hall