Elizabeth Carter

she's good and ready to be nineteen

it's true
i never looked away
not from this prize
knowing all too soon
she will launch

my mother, my big girls, sweetie
all welcomed her
bright lights and sterile room
first baby born in Utah
last baby born of me

every virtuous attribute
embodied here
only sticking point-
suggestions
get stuck in her craw

Heavenly Father knew
He always does
we need her
a blessing to all
precious beyond measure

happy 19 dear Elizabeth

happy birthday to you.

(photo by alison carter brasher)

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