My Mothers Daughter

I am from combat boots and over-sized glasses
From pickle green uniforms & pink fuzzy bed clothes
I am from the cool glacial ice and the hot, humid breeze
From M & M's and a really good read

And Pepsi Cola and the sinus infected sneeze
From moon boots and midnight swings
From 5 k runs and long hot baths
From "get in here or I'll bust your ass."

From "Angela Dawns" and "tacky tacky"
To "yes my love" and midnight snacks
I am from Coffee with cream and 2000 cups
Books on shelves and books in tubs

Books in boxes and books on stands
I am from education, that's the key
I am from "look baby, you can read"
A deep southern drawl and clear, concise sentences

A stammered hello and no fear of confrontation
I am from a southern Susie stationed in Alaska, finding her elation
The Coffers and Robey's my only relations
I am from independent natures & "You can do anything"

Red perfume and black shoe polish
Long fingernails and small arms training
Harsh reprimands and pure golden laughter
I am from a hard lived life that ended too soon

A son that reminds me with my mother's sweet face
There will be a better time & a much better place
A scrapbook filled with bits of life
My pictures of mom in a box in my room