Ilene Bauer Poet Rhyme

My Dad's Birthday

My dad, who died at 55,
Is etched inside my heart,
Despite the fact it's almost
Forty years we've been apart.

Today's his birthday; had he lived,
There'd be a Carvel cake.
(One year I baked a cake from scratch,
But that was a mistake.)

I conjure up his face and there, 
As clear as it can be,
A vision of him laughing 
Is what floats in front of me.

That's quite a lovely legacy 
For one to leave behind -
A smile and laughter tattooed
In a loved one's heart and mind.

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Caren Krutsinger December 31, 2019 at 1:23 PM What a great tribute to spirit, especially our Daddy's spirit, which I feel around me whenever I think of him. Especially if I take a whiff of the plaid flannel jacket he used to wear daily. It has been eight years, yet, it brings him to me instantly.

Rico Leffanta December 30, 2019 at 5:08 PM Such a young age! At least you have wonderful memories of him! Well said! Aloha! Rico

Anne-Lise Andresen December 30, 2019 at 3:00 PM - A lovely tribute for your dad, Ilene :) - I wish you a wonderful new year :) - hugs // Anne-Lise :) Ilene Bauer December 30, 2019 at 3:03 PM Thank you, Anne-Lise! A happy new year to you, too!

Chris Green December 30, 2019 at 2:55 PM This was heart touching my friend and I can;t even remember the last time I had a Carvel cake. Wow, I think I was kid, so yes...that long ago. : ) Ilene Bauer December 30, 2019 at 3:02 PM Thanks, Chris! I always felt bad that my family preferred a Carvel cake to my home-baked one, but I learned to accept it and it saved me a lot of effort. ~ Have a happy new year!

Jan Allison December 30, 2019 at 2:45 PM what a souper tribute Ilene I especially love the final stanza and the smile and laughter tattooed in ones heart and mind - that is beautiful poetry!:-) hugs Jan xx sending new year greetings to you and your family:-) x Ilene Bauer December 30, 2019 at 2:58 PM Much appreciated, Jan! Best wishes to you and yours, too, for a wonderful 2020!

Tom Cunningham December 30, 2019 at 2:42 PM A lovely tribute to your Dad Ilene, they live on in Your heart and mind. Happy New year. Tom Ilene Bauer December 30, 2019 at 2:56 PM Thank you, Tom! Happy New Year to you, too!