The sun is shining,
the cloudless sky
is Mediterranean blue
and off we go to Tollymore.

This is a place we began to frequent
in our courting days
(when our picnic was simple –
a flask of tea
and a Cadbury’s Swiss Chocolate Gateau
all to ourselves!)

Today’s walk brings us
up two low, humpy hills
that are aptly named
“The Drinns”
which means, “The Humps”.

Secluded waterfalls tumble
into shallow pools
and craggy peaks
reach high above us
while far below
the town of Newcastle
nestles
in the blue, sparkling waters
of Dundrum Bay.

Butterflies flit
about our feet,
birds chorus overhead
and tiny woodland flowers
wink up at us
like miniature white and purple stars.

Our walk around The Drinns
is absolutely immersed in beauty –
how come we have never
found this treasure
in over thirty years
of visiting Tollymore?

And as we drive home
I give silent thanks
to my wonderful
God of Surprises
who has presented me,
yet again,
with a perfect jewel
of a family day-out
(another memory
to treasure!)

© Claire Murray, 25th April 2022