They start so small, an infant child,
that little hand, a touch so mild;
You pause and watch that blissful rest,
and hope their dreams will ride a crest
of good things - joy and hope and love so fine,
of bedtime tales, and peace through time.

Older they get, 'til diapers no longer
First a word, then questions and questions to ponder
To mold that curious mind, and how does it grow?
A world's uncertain time to know
A toothless smile so innocent and bright
We know that all is well tonight.

Then school and kids surround us all
and all with delight they tour the mall
To test our patience with , "it's all the rage."
We knew better when we were their age.
That first date already, time is going so fast.
Please slow down, I want it to last.

"Yes mom, I'm really not going that far."
"I hope you don't mind if I borrow the car."
For soon you know they'll be leaving the nest,
You hope you have given your very best
of good things - joy and hope and love so fine,
of bedtime tales, and peace through time.