Big Girl Poem by Carolyn Brunelle

With tiny little hands,
barely able to grab ‘round the knob,
she stretches and tippy toes with all her height;
finally succeeding in opening the door
to sneak down the hall,
all two and a half feet of her.
Skidding across the hardwood floors
in footed pajamas,
night terrors await in darkened hallways
and staircases but she is determined
to do it this time all by herself.
Finally reaching the landing,
she slips and slides from each step
until she reaches bottom.
Gingerly continuing her midnight adventure,
favorite blanket dragging behind,
she shuffles off for the kitchen
straight to the refrigerator
for some milk and cookies.
Her loyal, comforting friends
through all manner of boo boo’s,
and assorted troubles of the day;
mommy must have forgotten
all about her need for them,
for hugs, together time and stories too.
But she’ll be proud tomorrow
that she can take care of herself;
mommy’s “big girl” trying not to need
someone who isn’t there anymore.