Nancy L. Meek

WHEN DADDY WINKED AT MAMMA

Daddy winked at Mamma as she met him at the door
And I, one of five children, had seen that wink before.

As always, when it happened, we knew it meant a treat
And all of us five children would soon be on our feet,

Swarming ‘round our daddy dear… like bees when making honey
Wondering what surprise he brought…like games or maybe money.

That day, he led us all outside into our big back yard
Lining us up like stair steps… the waiting awfully hard.

Daddy winked at Mamma, who waved from where she stood
Inside the kitchen window… we knew this must be good!

He pulled a fist of coins from the pocket of his pants
He smiled and raised an eyebrow as we began to dance.

He boomed, “Now pay attention! I have another coin…
A brand new silver dollar, which to the change I’ll join!

Whoever finds the dollar will earn another one!”
He then threw all the money and we were on the run!

Daddy joined our mamma in waving through the window
And when we’d find a coin, we’d hold it up to show.

We thought they’d gotten bored, ‘cause soon they disappeared;
But soon we didn’t care, for dark was drawing near.

We never found the dollar and now that I am grown,
I learned he never threw it… so they could be alone.

And I, one of six children, forgive him for the trauma
For now, I know the reason why Daddy winked at Mamma!