This poem came from the heart, and I felt it was worth sharing with the world—at least with that part of the world, admittedly an infinitesimally small part, that finds its way to my blog. Lauren was a precocious three-year old when her aunt (my youngest daughter) penned this poem, way back in the last century (1984). The years have passed quickly—Lauren is now 25, a lovely and loving young woman, currently employed as an Early Child Development teacher while continuing her education.
The years have passed, but the Eskimo kisses and the miniature bear hugs persist.
Lauren
Before you came into our lives
Children were just toys,
To be held and played with
And then returned to their rightful owners.
Through your eyes I have seen life
As only a child can;
You bring tears to my eyes
And warmth to my heart.
I await news of your latest conquest
Of adult conversation, which you seem to
have mastered at the wizened age of three.
And though you give them at random
And with deliberate consideration,
Those Eskimo kisses and miniature hugs
Mean more than you’ll ever know.
Love,
Aunt Kelley
The King of Texas 
Gigglebean!
November 16, 2009 at 5:57 pm
Thank you so much for sharing! I didn’t even know about this poem. It made me cry—a happy cry of course—and extra special thanks to Aunt Kelley!
cindydyer
November 18, 2009 at 11:42 pm
Wonderful posting, King! It was nice to see Lauren’s comment, too. I didn’t realize she had never seen it. Hey, want me to prepare a photo of Lauren (as a toddler) to accompany it? I have plenty, as you well know!
thekingoftexas
November 19, 2009 at 11:19 am
Thanks for the comment—I’ll take wonderful—praise from the mighty is praise indeed! (Note the exclamation point)
And a toddler photo would be great—I appreciate the offer. And perhaps one of the poet (poetess?). You are aware, of course, that if you offer to do a little more each day, pretty soon you’ll be asked to do a little more each day.