It’s only two weeks until Christmas
and yet the Christmas tree
and the decorations
are still in the roof-space,
many of the presents
have yet to be bought
and Christmas cards
remain unwritten.

We are so far behind!

And yet on this December Sunday morning
we rise early,
pack a picnic
and head for Tollymore,
putting all thoughts
of our substantial Christmas “To Do” list
firmly out of our heads.

Tollymore, when we arrive,
is unusually quiet
(most people are probably
busy catching up
on Christmas shopping).

Wandering along the paths and tracks
we enjoy the luxury
of precious family time together.
As we explore and chat
cares and worries slip
to the back of our minds
and we simply enjoy the moment.

Dandering along
I have a sense
that this family time
is part of my own preparation
for Christmas
and I am convinced
that My God will help me
to sort out
everything that I need to.
in good time.

But right here, right now,
with only two weeks to go to Christmas,
this is a day
for family.

© Claire Murray, 13th December 2015