I see you in that photo Mama

That happy holiday one on the beach

A family having a magical day, making full and lasting memories

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I see you in that photo Mama

The sand-speckled faces of children smothered in suncream

(The expensive one that’s kind to skin)

Treats you brought gripped tightly in tiny fists 

Little beach shoes to protect little toes

Matching swim suits, so carefully chosen

Sunglasses and sunhats (please keep them on)

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I see you in that photo Mama

The UV beach tent you battled to put up

Wipes and nappy sacks

Emergency rain macs

Many changes of clothes and just-in-case snacks

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It’s a happy photo Mama

With the body boards you remembered

And bats and balls and frisbees and buckets and spades

And your magazine (which is laughable really)

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I see you in that photo Mama

Even though you’re behind the camera

Like all these special pictures of their Very Best Times

But you made this photo what it is

And i just wanted to say although you’re not in it

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I see you