she comes to us when we least expect it
hawks on a wire
redbirds at the feeder
wild turkeys in the yard
beeping seatbelt reminders

we were munching on popcorn
slurping cherry Icees
cocooned in our movie blankets
watching Emma
my Ansley and I

when those beloved lyrics
invoked her unticketed presence
perched right between us
arms around our shoulders

How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord
is laid for your faith in His excellent word
a congregational hymn at her funeral
her unwavering message to all of us

mother-daughter movies
popcorn and Icees
hymns that leave no questions
she comes to us when we least expect it