Bubbi Poem by joan reese

Bubbi, grandmom of my friend Elayne­,
Was like a Bubbi to me;
She baked wonderful birthday cakes.

Four layers high, ivory icing,
Dainty red roses, coconut flakes,
A divine cake with a delicious almond taste.

Bubbi, fullfigured, ­stood five feet high,
Genuine smile adorned her sweet face,
Bubbi's kindness, sweeter than a lullaby.

My kissed fingertip touched the Mezuzah
Nailed to the frame of Elayne's door.
Who would let me in? Bubbi!

'Happy Birthday, 'she sang,
Soft arms wrapped around me.
Never had I been held so close!

My body stiffened
Lifeless as the silver Madonna
That hung from my neck.

Elayne sang Happy Birthday,
Holding the cake Bubbi had baked,
Tears welled up in my eyes.

Bubbi's words, 'Don't forget to make
A special wish, a sweet girl like you,
Your birthday wish will come true.

'Take your cake home!
Before you go to the matinee.
Cut the cake with your family tonight.'

Returned home later
To find my birthday cake half eaten,
Without candles or song.

I remembered the warmth of Bubbi's embrace.