My dear Mum.

It was not the celebration I hoped you would have,
Alone in your room, quiet, distant.
Oh, to be there by your side,
To be holding your hand,
But not this year.

It was not lost on us, this momentous occasion,
A milestone in life, your life, and ours.
Oh, how I wish I was there,
How I wanted to come.
With luck maybe next year.

It was less than deserved for your 91 years,
Though the day was not missed, forgotten, ignored.
Yes, we celebrated here,
You celebrated there,
And a happy day it was.

It was not the celebration I hoped you would have,
But what I want you to know is this –
To thank you for everything,
I send love, hugs and kisses.
Happy birthday to you, my dear Mum.