It’s an early start for us today
and we groan
when the alarm clock rings
and we clamber out of bed.

First,
early morning Latin Mass
in Newry
in a pretty wee chapel
filled with faces
of people we don’t know
(yet!)
We enjoy the added bonus
of a wee girl making
her First Holy Communion –
such a special, blessed
and happy day!

After coffee in Newry,
a wander around the hills
at Grange
(sun hats, sun cream
and bottles of cool water
to quench our thirst).

A startled lizard
darts across the road
and seeks shelter
under my boot!
I lift my foot gently
and step lightly away.

Butterflies flutter by
and a lone buzzard cruises
in blue skies overhead.
A sleepy collie snoozes
in the shade
and lambs watch curiously
as we pass by.

A sense of God all around.

A picnic back at our car
followed by 99’s
by a glittering, blue sea.

Finally,
home again in Belfast
with just enough time for a snooze
before tea!

Thank you, Lord,
for a wonderful, summer’s day,
filled with faith, family
and sunshine.

How perfect is that!
(Definitely worth today’s early rise!)

© Claire Murray, 3rd June 2023