In her last weeks Grace breathed in lavender essential oil when she was short of breath. It always helped relax her lungs and remain calm.

I planted violets and lavender
for you
Spanish lavender,
French lavender,
English lavender
Your birthday’s too early
for the violets
to be in bloom
but I’ll show you
the new plant
just under the Silk Tassle.

Our years together
have been rich with flowers
beautiful rocks and songs
poems and stories
silence
and quiet conversations.

I bring only little gifts
this year.
Looked tonight
for another Aladdin’s lamp
so you could wish
for income that doesn’t
dry up.
But all I can give you
is my intention
and a rain check
for a bouquet of
sweet violets come Spring.

Happy birthday, my true heart!
2004