Birthday Blues

Bitter-sweet and candy-free
wish list abandoned
gift-wrap shelved

But twins are never on their own
when birthdays come and go
they will forever share these days
and so will we, their friends

Bitter-sweet and candy-free
wish list checked
presents sent.

No longer will she take her seat
to celebrate and feast
we will forever set a place
and let her take her turn

Bitter-sweet and candy-free
wish list written
heart unwrapped.

(Happy) Birthday to You,
(Happy) Birthday to You,
(Happy) Birthday dear Alison,
(Happy) Birthday to You

Alison would have been 44 on Friday 11th October 2013.  Marion, her twin, had her 44th birthday.   Four years ago we were all preparing for their "80th" as they turned 40.  As the party approached Alison received her diagnosis of breast cancer.  Understandably this was to be kept quiet and the party went ahead with dancing and food and laughter.  But i was screaming inside, i found it so painful to observe (for observe was all i did other than preparing, serving and clearing away the food).  I have a few very short video clips which show Alison dancing.

How could she be gone less than 4 years later?

I don't know how and when Marion will have a happy birthday.  I don't know how, if ever, her birthday will be more celebration than sorrow.  I don't know.  I can only guess.

(Happy) Birthday to You,
(Happy) Birthday to You,
(Happy) Birthday dear Marion,
(Happy) Birthday to You