For Misha on her birthday.

BEE AND LAVENDER

Waking from sleep
twice of late
I have felt your presence
announced by fragrance
of bee and lavender
which you made for me.
Even though that small jar is closed and in the drawer--
I know it's you
come to visit me
while you sleep no doubt
your spirit finds free to waft toward
and toward--your grandmother--
as in the old days when you were three and snuggled so happily
onto my very pillow--
Such a good presence you are still--forever.

(c)-- Barbara Smith Stoff