Heartfelt Noodles

These pieces are woven from joy and sorrow, from the moments that leave us changed. A collection of raw, honest feelings — the quiet music of a life fully lived.

Under New York Skies

Hip hip hooray, the angels do cheer,

For Niki and Ben – the day is here!

In Central Park, beneath New York skies

Love takes the stage, and spirits rise.

Niki, my sister, my own drama queen,

Attached to my hip since before you could wean.

Your quest for love over the years

Led to angry outbursts and lots of tears!

You searched for love, even tried swiping right,

But the fates, oh they had other plans in sight!

You met Ben at work, cool, calm and kind,

And boom you knew “He’s the find”.

You moved in together no time to waste,

Filled the house with joy and lots of great taste.

Music gigs, holidays, foodie feasts,

Your life is a party that just doesn’t cease.

Niki is loud, they’re both fun, never dull

Their hearts are big, their wine glasses full.

They host, they hug, they dance, they sing,

And now they got that wedding ring.

And somewhere above, with a proud little tear,

Mum’s smiling wide, saying “Cheers, my dear”.

She’d beam at the love, the laughter, this place

At Niki’s joy, and Ben’s warm embrace.

Back home the family’s cheering loud,

With a sense of relief, Alan is feeling proud.

Though oceans stretch and miles may part,

They are right there with you, heart to heart.

So, looking ahead to your married life

Now you’ve said your vows and become man and wife.

Your single status will not be missed,

Now let’s hit the pub and get mightily pissed!

Wishing you love, health and happiness always.

Annette xx

A Phone Call to Heaven

If you could make a phone call to a loved one no longer here

Would it be tinged with sadness or full of laughter and cheer?

Would you write a list of the things you wished you had said?

Or would you simply share the thoughts that are running through your head?

If there is a line to heaven, I know exactly who I would call,

Simply to the one whose loss cuts much deeper than those gone before

I’d say “Hi mum, it’s me, I hope you’re OK,”

Then I’d start by telling her all about her funeral day.

I’d tell her it was as she wished on a gorgeous blue sky day,

I’d describe the simple service and the wonderful things the minister had to say.

I’d explain her resting space, and the beauty of the spot.

I’d make her laugh by telling her I’ve bought the next door plot!

I’d tell her of the lovely memories people had to share,

And all the wonderful flowers showing how much people care.

I’d describe the haunting sounds that the piper played,

As into her resting place she was so peacefully laid.

I’d tell of the family and how we are doing fine.

And she would be proud of us as we walk the mourning line.

I’d tell her she has left a void that is so very hard to fill.

Oh! And I’d tell her I got COVID and ended up really quite ill.

I’d tell her about her garden, and how she would be pleased,

To see it awash with colours, with flowers so tightly squeezed.

And I’d tell her not just at the house, but in the cemetery too,

Where we made a graveside garden, especially for you.

I’d tell her ife goes on, but living is strange without her here,

Particularly at family events where her absence is so very clear.

I’d tell her on her birthday we shared cake, balloons and fizz,

And about the summer birthdays, she’s so sadly has to miss.

I’d tell her the house is clean and tidy, and we are getting into a routine,

How we share the chores, but you know how Niki likes to clean!

I’d tell her Alan has become adept at putting together a dinner,

And how we deliver meals on wheels, he knows he’s onto a winner.

I’d tell her of the summer, and how the weather has been strange,

How it’s been cool and grey, but we are hopeful of change.

As we move into late summer, we hope the sun comes out.

Oh! And the restrictions have been lifted, folks are out and about.

I’d tell her we’re hopeful of some holiday travel

Unless a new variant kicks in and our travel plans unravel.

I’d tell her we are planning a trip back to the sunny Caribbean,

Relaxing in Antigua, because I need a change of scene.

I’d tell her this year has been tougher than those years gone before,

With COVID life, and her death, we cant cope with anymore!

But I’d tell her we are strong, and we will muddle our way through,

And she would say “You’re doing well, and I’m proud of you.”

But this call can’t last forever, and I know it is time,

To tell her how much I love her, this wonderful mother of mine.

I’d say “Bye for now Mum, I’ve loved our chat and know you are near”

Then gently end the call and shed a little tear.