The Poet Laureate

Joyce Swords by Christopher E. Joyce, on the occasion of his parent's 50th wedding anniversary

Ed and Jane, Jane and Ed,
They often sent us off to bed
Alone at last Ed would cheer
Yes Jane would say ‘til early next year

First came Michael
Bold and strong
Very fitting
For son number one

Along came Patricia
May Queen, teacher and prudent
And along came Kevin
And Pat became the student

Then came Pete, tough as nails
But he always loved his family
I guess goodness prevails

Dr. Joyce hair so red
Doctor Joyce to Kathy wed
Two great kids
Good to grandmom
One great family
All good to grandpa

Down to me, as I read this poem
L love you all especially Dad and Mom
Who on this day we do honor
Who on every day, I live in wonder
I live with them, and I see their love
And it’s beautiful to marvel on

Down to Kathy – who’s been gone so long
Kathy was meant for another song

Phil came along, and it was instant toy,
What an athlete, what a brave little boy
Now I never knew he’d get bigger than I
Now he's strong as an ox and I’m the little guy

And Ogie Paul whatever your name
I’d take money on you from 25 and in
You work so hard with so many tasks
I’d like to hit the lotto and give you anything you ask

Along came Mary
Last but not least
I haven’t always told you what I mean
But your heart is true – your mind is too
You one of the prettiest women I ever knew

Mom – Dad from all of me
And all of your children we love you