I Love Life

Things aren't the same

as they used to be;

my kidneys have failed

And I'm not as free.

I get a little tired

and my fingers are numb,

my blood pressure's low

and my legs cramp some.

My veins are bigger

and my skin is tan.

they poke needles in my arm

whenever they can.

I'm attached to a machine

three days a week

and hope to god

my blood doesn't leak.

They put in some Heparin

and then E.P.O.,

a little more Saline,

and away I go.

But I'm still happy

with what I've got;

I'm still alive

and it's better than not.

I can still hear the whistle

of the wind and the trees,

and the musical laughter

of my kids as they tease.

I can still see snowflakes

on a white winter day,

and smell the aroma

of a new mown hay.

I can still see the fire

with its warm friendly glow,

and hear the sweet music

on the old radio.

I can still feel the breeze

as the boat gently sways,

on the lake as it ripples

on hot lazy days.

I can still see the color

of the sky so blue,

and look out the window

at a snowbird or two.

I can still bake a pie

and some cookies too,

put on the coffee

and visit with you.

And what is more wonderful

than soup on the pot,

and bread from the oven

still fresh and hot.

Good food, good friends,

and a glass of wine.

memories of this

are still all mine.

- Mardelle Peters -