Fragile Lace, Tiny Hands

My hands tremble, delicate lace
our heirloom christening gown.
I picture Katie's tiny fingers, blue eyes
satin crown of golden hair.

Swam in the womb
heartbeat strong, growing.
What joy moved under my heart
only to have it snatched away.

What did I do?
maybe a glass of wine,
Mothers' protect.
Oh, my love, I am so sorry.

I close my eyes, hear waves
gently lapping the shoreline.
Off season is Autumn's paintbox,
children's laughter in summer.

Our vacation cottage,
we want Katie near us.
We open the urn, ashes
touch waves to embrace her.

She'd have loved it here,
making sand castles, being a mermaid.
Play make believe,
I watch from the chair as I write.

Worn by four generations
safe in the cedar chest.
Someday I will try again,
Katie is now.

Mighty ocean, God’s masterpiece
magnificent sea life, exquisite coral reefs.
Millions of tears
cradle my tiny Katie to sleep.