Of Arms and Hearts (or, They Grow So Fast)

but we did it again...celebrate granddaughter's birthday!! They grow so fast we sigh, as seasons fly through arms and heartsWhere none can tame the twinkle in time’s eye or change its waysThe child soon tries its wings, tugging on strings that love impartsWhile teaching us to treasure the fleet measure of TodaysFor time is never idle; none can tame or bridle clocksChildhood’s tower of make-believe soon tumbled by hard knocks They grow so fast we cry, while milestones make us laugh and weepRobbing us of ready reply when we try to explainLove’s gladness that runs rife with sorrow for what none can keepWhere each wee babe soon tests the play of love’s parental reinThe brief heaven of innocence soon startled by a VoiceAs the gavel of consequence falls on the heels of Choice They grow so fast we say, and pray the Lord their souls to guardWith angel armies, for this world is full of deadly snaresWhere soon our arms are lowered and the garden gate unbarredAnd off they go; but never out of reach of tender prayersOr the eternal cradle-dear, that no child can outgrowThe heart that keeps them near no matter where their feet may go © Janet Martin Grand-daughter's 'prince' freeing the princess... Found the sweet poem above in this book!