Elm Halo

“There was a year we do not talk about and we both know which one I mean. You stayed in the room when leaving was the easier of the two things.”

“You have worked birthdays, holidays and more night shifts than I can count. I hope you get this birthday off, and if not, I hope someone brings you cake.”

“I still remember running behind your first bike, holding on to the seat. The day I let go, you rode all the way to the end of the street.”

“I hope your first morning in your new home is quiet and sunny. A good cup of coffee, a box or two still to unpack, and a big proud feeling.”

“Your first night in a new place will feel strange, and all the noises will be new. By next month it will feel like home, because you make every place feel that way.”

“At every party, I can pick out your laugh from across the room. It still makes me smile every time, just like it did the night we met.”

“Your graduation photo is going right in the middle of the fridge. Right next to your kindergarten one, so everyone can see how far you have come.”