I remember a friend
saying to me
that when she returns
to her family home
in South Derry
and goes for a walk
through the fields,
she often thinks to herself,
“Is there really anywhere
better than this
in the world?”

Words that fascinated me.

Living in a city,
I could only imagine
the freedom
of walking through fields
without fear of annoying the farmer
who owned them.

Until now.

I find myself
on a short family holiday
in the grounds of Drumcovitt House
near Feeny.

In the evenings,
a walk through the gardens
where mighty trees tower overhead
and bees buzz
in the rhododendrons.

Followed by Scrabble on the patio
while jackdaws cackle
and thrushes serenade.

Then a dander
down a tree-lined lane
(the trees are tall, magnificent
and over 200 years old!)
Here there are fields
that we are allowed
to walk through!
No need to fear the farmer –
such freedom!

Amazing views of Benbradagh,
Binevenagh and Sawel
all greyed-out
in the summer evening sky.

Peace and quiet,
a sense of wonder
and a sense of family –
perfect!

Thank you, Lord,
for a wonderful family holiday –
precious time together
and the luxury
of walking through fields.

© Claire Murray, 14th June 2023