I saw a hot air balloon this morningAnd immediately thought of you

Every time I am on the hillI yell “Hi Grandma!”As loud as I can

I look at the ancient hilltop treeHow its branch is pointingTo all the land you loved

I look at the vineyardsAnd I rememberHow much you treasured them

When I climb the hillI still rememberScattering your ashesHow they blew on me in the windAnd I didn’t brush them off

I think of you quiltingEven in intensive careWhen it was hard for you to breatheAnd when you wanted off life supportBut stayed alive until we were ready

I remember playing cardsListening to classical music andSpending Christmas mornings with you

Now I can listen to your voiceOn the life story tapeAnd sleep under your quiltWhenever I wantBut that is still nothingCompared to your love for me