Visitor

A little bit like the old days,

When childish enthusiasm took over,

Because Grandpa was visiting and we were allowed to do more.

Those days when there was always someone at home,

Who brought sweets,

And jokes we didn't quite understand.

That's how it feels with the visitor we're having this week

At a time when you don't really expect her to be here

And it's not clear which of us in the household is happiest about the visit.

Not wanting to waste a single minute of the November sunshine

Going for a walk before the working day starts

Lazing around together on the terrace.

A bit like it used to be

When I stood with Mum in the kitchen

Because we really had to discuss letting Grandad move in with us.

So that there would always be someone at home

And sweets that weren't hidden behind a magnetic kitchen cupboard

And maybe after a while we would even understand the jokes.