Do not stand at my grave and weep;

I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning’s hush

I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;

I am not there. I did not die.

Hi Gram

Hey, doll!

Happy Birthday!

You know you don’t need to send me any cards or anything.

I know, but it’s your birthday. Did you get the pictures that the girls sent?

With the ballerinas? I love it. I showed it to Helen when she came over to take me to the Dollar Store.

Oh really? Anything good at the Dollar Store?

I got some picture frames for the photos of the girls. I’m running out of room on the credenza over here.

You can always take down that picture of Christopher.

Be loving! How is that broken down brother of yours, anyway?

Broken-down. (laughter). The girls want to say wants to say hello.

Gramma, I-watched-a-show-and-then-we-had-chicken-nuggets-and-I-made-an-ice-rink-in-my-room-out-of-powder-and-when-you-boofah-it-goes-pbbbbtttt-and-then-you-go-sssstttt! Here’s Coever.

Heh-whoa? Heh-whoa! I wuv woo! Appa-soss! (drops the phone).

Hey, Gram, it’s me again.

Hey, doll. They are too much.

I know, I know. Listen, I know your stories are coming on, but I wanted to give you a quick call to say hi and wish you a Happy Birthday.

Okay, well you give Craig and the girls a big, ol‘ sloppy kiss.

You know I will. Happy Birthday, Gram. Love you.

Love you, too, doll.