Portrait by a mother

Chewed nails to the left,
chipped varnish to the right.
The top half doesn’t quite match –

-the bottom half in sight.
Flaked pink toes to brighten those,
jet… black… feet.

Weight to lose in places,
curves to gain in others.
Tired windows beautifully blackened,
wholesome skin now dry.

On the edge,
greasy hair, highlighting an
aching spine.
Wet look curls framing two,
weather… beaten… cheeks.

I look no more,
my eyes too sore,
for her frozen gaze met mine.
Simply. She stood.
Away from me,
a mother through and through.

I closed the windows to keep warm,
But I felt her breeze hold me.
The windows, I open, to realise,
finally a mother once more.

~ I'd really appreciate any comments and votes, ty x