In my home where soft light glows
And chocolate melting on my tongue 
No alarm’s cruel chime, just peaceful time
Where silence soaks into my mind 
All day they filled my world
With little hands, hugs and joy 
Sweet voices sharing every thought
Each moment burning with their glee
My heart full even as my energy scattered
Like their toys across the living room floor
But here, finally, the hours belong to me
No one to answer to, no schedule to keep
Transitioning into solitude
I reach for chocolate to reward my day
It melts on my tongue, unfurling my mind
To wander where it wants
Following threads of thought
That got tangled in the beautiful chaos
I find again the part of myself that I had gently given
Without condition
That grandparent giving
Tomorrow will bring that bliss again
But tonight I hold this quiet space
To taste the sweetness of both love and rest
One peaceful breath at a time


By Diane E. Dockum
©April 29, 2026