In the height of summer
we head to Tollymore,
arriving right at noon
when there’s no escaping
the hot, noonday sun
as we picnic.

Then, off into the cool forest
where trees tower
and the air is cool –
bliss!

The River Shimna is shallow
after a recent dry spell
looking as if, for once,
we could simply
step across it.

Families with their children
play in the river,
laughing and shrieking
as the cold water
splashes over them.

Youngsters explore
the stepping stones,
intense concentration etched
on their wee faces
as they step cautiously
and then yelling with delight
as they complete their mission.

A youth group
all dressed-up in safety gear
plunges
into a deep pool
in the river.

Then, up into the coolness
of the hills
where sunlight filters
through the trees
onto dusty paths.

Blue skies,
peace and quiet
and a very real sense
of summer.

Thank you, Lord,
for precious family time together
in the coolness of the forest
on a hot sunny day –
a perfect antidote
to the intense heat
of summer!

© Claire Murray, 24th June 2023