BABY CAKE

This morning you woke with a kick and a yelp
the usual scream raising me in an instant
to peer over you in the dark and whisper like I do
psspspspspspssssssssssppssss is that my girl?
there perceiving your smile as you stilled, quiet

Now in my arms you're so round and strong
if you were music you'd be in the key of G or F major
you're so loud and funny
if you were a food you'd probably be a condiment
pepper but more constant--salt, I think

But this morning for 51 minutes you are fondant
consenting to drape me in moldable icing
I who am stale cake making crumbs on the couch
sniffing as you sleep, taking little bites
until at last by your excessively sweet quality I am revived.