I don't want to remember

Her face when she laid dying

For I know she wouldn't want me to

Instead she'd want me to remember

Her eyes lined with blue eyeshadow

Lips colored with the perfect shade of red.

Hair a brilliant auburn, teased to perfection.

I don't want the memories

To be filled with her pain

For I know she wouldn't want me to

Instead she'd want my memories

Of her laughter

Joy of life by sitting on the grass

With a fishing pole in her hand

The sun warming her shoulders

On the day we took a float trip

Her smile by the light of a camp fire.

I don't want to recall

Hearing her voice weak

Instead she'd want me to recall

Her voice strong and filled with pride

Of her family and friends

How strong she were in life

Overcoming a painful childhood

Growing up into a beautiful woman

Marrying a older man

With his own children

And she proudly declared each one has her own.

Brought 4 more children into their life's.

When I close my eyes

It's the beautiful woman

Hair brilliant of color and eyes alight with happiness

Body and mind strong

For that is who she was in life.

She wouldn't want it any other way.

Dedicated to my momma 'Nola May Green'

Daddy I miss your laughter, mischievous ways and love of life. See you both in my dreams

Cindy Mashburn