Daddy, Are You Sleeping

Daddy, Are You Sleeping? Long car rides, or late night movies. Piggyback rides down our long hallway, then, you to pour me into bed. Daddy, are you sleeping? Newspaper glued to a thin, stick frame. I feel like the Wright Brothers as we soar through the skies. Daddy, are you awake? Birthday surprises, educational lectures, daily encouragement in every direction, and only us two sharing weekend donuts. Daddy, rise and shine. You trust me with your tractor and truck. Mom thinks I’m trying to kill her. Thank you for bragging on us, saying how beautiful I am. Daddy, are you up yet? A favorite Saturday breakfast, then teasing laughter ‘cause you have the biggest stack. Your 5 o'clock shadow grows as we watch the Astros, Oilers, Chief Wahoo McDaniel. Daddy, it’s time to get up. You glow pride of place when you deliver me to my dorm. I hear words of advice as you and mom wave me off: “Don’t forget you are here for books, and not for boys”. Daddy are you awake? I want to cover you with a blanket, keep you warm and safe, as you do with us. Mom places your wedding ring upon your starched white shirt. Daddy….Daddy, please get up.