Happy birthday Marian
A thousand mem'ries of you
blow across my mind
tiny miracle of life
held close to a mother's heart

Today you turned twelve
still I see my sweet baby
smile into my eyes

no flute to give thee
harp or cello have I none
chilled by poverty

hungry mouths to feed
our furry little darlings
their eyes beseeching

if I had more time
I would play croquet with you
and dress dolls again

hear a mother's heartfelt cry
baking loaves of bread and rolls
planning simple meals

May this humble poem
a token of my love prove
my dearest daughter