A Year in Poetry

Hockley LivingA Year In PoetryA Year In Poetry

The poems of Iris Jean Thomson

Everyone thinks they have the best mum in the world, well sorry you are all wrong, because I do!

With a mum like mine you always know that she is there and that is all you need to know.

I am so proud of her at 80 years of age for so many reasons, just one is that my mum was inspired to write twelve poems, one for each month of the year, so I could place them in

my monthly magazine which the local community could then enjoy.

Well the year has passed and my mum has stopped writing her poems, however we can still all enjoy them in this booklet.

�ank you mum for your lust for life and reaching into all of our hearts.

Thoughts of JanuaryI always feel a sense of excitement at the start of a New YearA new beginning, a time to forget the mistakes of yesterday

A time for new hopes, new challenges, a time to face ones fearYet where would I start and what should I do, will my dreams be many or will they be few?Pick up my watercolours, start painting again, resume my piano lessons and play a refrain

Perhaps a new hairdo, that should suffi ce, high lights all over, oh! that would be niceShed a few pounds, walk three miles each day, or will other things always get in the way

And so my thoughts went round and round, until the answer at last I foundNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to see

It was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earth

I smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateAs though waiting with bated breath, for the bitter north winds to seal their fate

And then would follow the fi rst fall of snow, oh where would all those small creatures goAnd so it was as I walked along listening to the Robin sing a new song

Tiny bulbs appearing through the soil, it must have been a long hard toilSnowdrops in clusters, heads bowed in prayer, Crocuses brightly dressed in gardens everywhere

The Winter Cherry adorned in bridal white, on such a grey day what a beautiful sightReluctantly I retraced my steps for now I could see, just what the New Year meant to me

Words suddenly sprung to mind, the origin I had to fi ndI knew they had come from the Creator above, so please accept them with my love

BEHOLD I AM MAKING ALL THINGS NEW.

New Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to seeIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January

When nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earth

I smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked state


When nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earth

I smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateHockley LivingThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earth

I smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateHockley LivingI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateHockley LivingI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateHockley Living

When nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January

Hockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January

Hockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January

Hockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley Living

Hockley LivingAnd so my thoughts went round and round, until the answer at last I found

Hockley LivingAnd so my thoughts went round and round, until the answer at last I foundAnd so my thoughts went round and round, until the answer at last I found

Hockley LivingAnd so my thoughts went round and round, until the answer at last I found

Hockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley Living

I smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateHockley LivingI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked state

As though waiting with bated breath, for the bitter north winds to seal their fate

Hockley LivingAs though waiting with bated breath, for the bitter north winds to seal their fate

Hockley LivingHockley LivingNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to see

Hockley LivingNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to seeNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to see

Hockley LivingNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to seeIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January

Hockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January

Hockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthHockley LivingThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earth

I smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateHockley LivingI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateHockley LivingI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateHockley LivingNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to see

Hockley LivingNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to see

Hockley LivingNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to see


Hockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to see


Hockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidHockley LivingNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to see


Hockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January

Hockley LivingHockley LivingNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to see

Hockley LivingNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to seeNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to see


Hockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January

Hockley LivingIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earth

I smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked stateI smiled, Mother Nature preparing for new birth, Oak and Ash standing shyly in their naked state

When nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earthWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidThe fi elds lay silent and sombre, I could see green young shoots above the earth



It was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard saidWhen nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard said



When nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard said

New Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to seeNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to seeIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January

New Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to seeNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to seeIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of JanuaryIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January

New Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to seeNew Year was not only all about ME, so outside I went, other things to seeIt was one of those calm tranquil days, which often happens at the beginning of January



When nothing stirs, the sky the colour of lead, Halcyon Days I once heard said

Love is?Love is a ‘Many-Splendored Thing’

In the morning mist two lovers kissed and the world stood stillDo you remember humming the tune, or even seeing the fi lm?

In those days romance was alive; couples tied the knot and lovingly said“I will”

Can you recall the excitement of your very fi rst date?Should one arrive on time or perhaps a little late?

Life takes on a new meaning and the world becomes a nicer placeA warm glow inside, a smile upon your face

Love is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never failsAnd we all know love makes the world go round,

it’s like a precious stone waiting to be foundYes love has many facets, see a mother as she tenderly touches her baby’s cheek

The love of a nurse as she cares for the old and the weakThe faithful dog as he sits at his master’s side

A father admonishing his son,his love trying so hard to hide

Remembering too, Gods love for us,the price he had to pay

So let us share a ‘Special Love’upon this Valentine’s Day.

In the morning mist two lovers kissed and the world stood stillIn the morning mist two lovers kissed and the world stood still

The love of a nurse as she cares for the old and the weak

My constant thoughts

are of Thee

Beautiful March We always think of March as the beginning of spring

When we can throw off all those winter bluesShed our thick woollies and boots and put on lighter shoes

Alas, strong winds and fl urries of snowMake us ask, will winter ever go?

Then suddenly the days grow longerThe weak winter sun grows warmer and strongerWordsworth’s daffodils still swaying in the breezeCarpets of blue bells, violets, primroses in clusters

shortly to open beneath the treesRed tulips standing tall like sentinels along the drive of a stately homeOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all alone

Birds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepareThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we see

A famous poet once wrote “The world is full of a number of things,

I think we should all be as happy as kings”Mother’s Day is a day we all enjoy,

it makes no difference if we are a girl or boyWe show our love for all they have done,

their care, devotion and plenty of funA day to feel happy, a day to feel sad,

we may have lost our mother we may have lost our dadSo let us remember one another as one big family

For don’t you think that was the way God intended it to be

Life takes on a new meaning and the world becomes a nicer place


it’s like a precious stone waiting to be found


Love is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails

Hockley LivingHockley Living

And we all know love makes the world go round,Hockley LivingAnd we all know love makes the world go round,

it’s like a precious stone waiting to be foundHockley Livingit’s like a precious stone waiting to be foundHockley Living


it’s like a precious stone waiting to be foundHockley Livingit’s like a precious stone waiting to be foundHockley Living

And we all know love makes the world go round,Hockley LivingAnd we all know love makes the world go round,Hockley Living


Hockley LivingLove is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails









And we all know love makes the world go round,Hockley LivingAnd we all know love makes the world go round,Hockley LivingA warm glow inside, a smile upon your face

Hockley LivingA warm glow inside, a smile upon your faceLove is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails


And we all know love makes the world go round,Hockley LivingAnd we all know love makes the world go round,Hockley LivingA warm glow inside, a smile upon your face



A warm glow inside, a smile upon your face

Hockley LivingA warm glow inside, a smile upon your face

Hockley LivingShould one arrive on time or perhaps a little late?

Hockley LivingShould one arrive on time or perhaps a little late?

Life takes on a new meaning and the world becomes a nicer place

Hockley LivingLife takes on a new meaning and the world becomes a nicer place



Hockley LivingLove is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never failsLove is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails


Hockley LivingYes love has many facets, see a mother as she tenderly touches her baby’s cheek

Hockley LivingYes love has many facets, see a mother as she tenderly touches her baby’s cheek


Hockley LivingLife takes on a new meaning and the world becomes a nicer placeA warm glow inside, a smile upon your face




it’s like a precious stone waiting to be foundHockley Livingit’s like a precious stone waiting to be foundHockley LivingA warm glow inside, a smile upon your face





Hockley LivingLife takes on a new meaning and the world becomes a nicer placeA warm glow inside, a smile upon your face





Hockley LivingLove is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never failsLove is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails

And we all know love makes the world go round,Love is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails

And we all know love makes the world go round,it’s like a precious stone waiting to be found




it’s like a precious stone waiting to be found

A warm glow inside, a smile upon your faceLove is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails

And we all know love makes the world go round,Love is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails

And we all know love makes the world go round,Love is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never failsLove is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails



A warm glow inside, a smile upon your faceA warm glow inside, a smile upon your faceLove is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails



Love is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never failsA warm glow inside, a smile upon your face



Love is the most powerful emotion; the Bible tells us love never fails Red tulips standing tall like sentinels along the drive of a stately homeOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all alone

Birds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepareThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we see

A famous poet once wrote

Red tulips standing tall like sentinels along the drive of a stately homeOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all alone

Birds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepareThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley LivingSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley LivingSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley LivingSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley Living

Birds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepare

Hockley LivingBirds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepare

The song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley LivingSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley Living



The song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley Living



The song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all alone

Hockley LivingOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all aloneBirds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepare


The song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley LivingSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley LivingOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all alone



The song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingRed tulips standing tall like sentinels along the drive of a stately home

Hockley LivingRed tulips standing tall like sentinels along the drive of a stately home



The song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley Living


Hockley LivingRed tulips standing tall like sentinels along the drive of a stately homeOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all alone



The song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareHockley LivingThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeHockley LivingSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we see

A famous poet once wroteHockley Living

A famous poet once wroteHockley LivingRed tulips standing tall like sentinels along the drive of a stately home


Hockley LivingOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all alone














Hockley LivingBirds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepareBirds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepare

The song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we see

Birds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepareThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareSurely our steps must lighter be, when all around such beauty we seeThe song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to share

Or mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all aloneBirds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepare


Or mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all aloneBirds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepare

The song thrush who sings her song twice over, wanting all to shareBirds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepare






Birds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepareOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all aloneOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all alone

Birds chattering in the hawthorn hedge, their nests to prepareOr mixed among the wall fl owers in the garden of a cottage all alone








Who is this man called Jesus?Who is this man called Jesus?

I heard someone ask todayThese words they seemed to trouble me

As I closed my eyes to prayYes, who is this man called Jesus?

Who died upon that tree?And is it true he really cares

For a sinner such as me?God became man by virgin birth

Destined to reign over all the earthA tiny babe, born in a manger

Could he love me, a total stranger?He lived his life helping others

Healing the sick, the lame to walkThe blind to see, yet still I asked

How can it be?They nailed him to that cruel crossAnd there he died for all the lost

His blood he shed upon the groundThat sinners like me could be found

In sorrow I whispered, I need to knowFrom your cross does forgiveness flow?

Dear Jesus please, I have to seeThat you really, truly do love meI looked up in the bright blue sky

A fluffy white cloud went scudding byA baby smiled as I touched his hand

A honey bee hovered by a flower to landThe answer was there for me to see

This is the man called JesusAnd he truly has forgiven me.

I heard someone ask todayThese words they seemed to trouble me

As I closed my eyes to prayYes, who is this man called Jesus?

Who died upon that tree?And is it true he really cares

Healing the sick, the lame to walkThe blind to see, yet still I asked

How can it be?They nailed him to that cruel crossAnd there he died for all the lost

His blood he shed upon the groundThat sinners like me could be found

In sorrow I whispered, I need to knowFrom your cross does forgiveness flow?

Dear Jesus please, I have to seeThat you really, truly do love meI looked up in the bright blue sky

A fluffy white cloud went scudding byA baby smiled as I touched his hand

A honey bee hovered by a flower to landThe answer was there for me to see

The Perfect DayThe sun was just rising as I jumped out of bed And I smiled as I thought of the day ahead

I’d planned it so long, The Perfect DayI really hadn’t the time to pray

The day would begin with a long long soak, Did I really say that, it must be a joke,

Then I’d go for a walk , find a quite shady nookWhile away the hours and read a good book

This day was for ME and only MEAnd this was the way it was going to beI’d worked so hard it seemed only fair

That the day was for ME and not to shareOh dear, the phone is ringing, who can it be?

The children to mind, ‘only two hours you say’ ‘mmm’ oh well that’s not long in a Perfect Day

A knock at the door, Mrs Browns had a fallCould I pop round she’s in the hall

Oh and on the way, there’s shopping she’ll needAnd don’t forget the cat needs a feed

Mr Smith feels very lowJust pop in and say hello

The hours of my day were dwindling fastSurely it wasn’t too much to ask

Oh well my Perfect Day was not to beFor GOD had other plans for me

If I’d only prayed at the start of dayI would have heard what he had to say

The sun is setting I go to bedI close my eyes and start to pray

And thank God for a Perfect Day.

Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley Living


Oh well my Perfect Day was not to be

And don’t forget the cat needs a feedMr Smith feels very low

Hockley LivingThe hours of my day were dwindling fastHockley LivingThe hours of my day were dwindling fast

Surely it wasn’t too much to askHockley LivingSurely it wasn’t too much to askHockley Living

The hours of my day were dwindling fastHockley LivingThe hours of my day were dwindling fast




The hours of my day were dwindling fastHockley LivingThe hours of my day were dwindling fastHockley Living

Just pop in and say hello

Hockley LivingJust pop in and say hello



The hours of my day were dwindling fastHockley LivingThe hours of my day were dwindling fastHockley LivingMr Smith feels very low

Hockley LivingMr Smith feels very lowJust pop in and say hello






Hockley LivingMr Smith feels very low

Hockley LivingAnd don’t forget the cat needs a feed


Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley Living

Oh and on the way, there’s shopping she’ll need

Hockley LivingOh and on the way, there’s shopping she’ll need

And don’t forget the cat needs a feed

Hockley LivingAnd don’t forget the cat needs a feedAnd don’t forget the cat needs a feed


Hockley LivingOh well my Perfect Day was not to be

Hockley LivingOh well my Perfect Day was not to be


Hockley LivingAnd don’t forget the cat needs a feedMr Smith feels very low




Surely it wasn’t too much to askHockley LivingSurely it wasn’t too much to ask

Oh well my Perfect Day was not to beHockley Living

Oh well my Perfect Day was not to beHockley Living

The hours of my day were dwindling fastThe hours of my day were dwindling fastSurely it wasn’t too much to ask


Just pop in and say helloThe hours of my day were dwindling fast

Surely it wasn’t too much to askThe hours of my day were dwindling fast




The hours of my day were dwindling fastJust pop in and say hello

The hours of my day were dwindling fastJust pop in and say helloJust pop in and say hello



And don’t forget the cat needs a feedMr Smith feels very low


And don’t forget the cat needs a feedMr Smith feels very lowMr Smith feels very low

Just pop in and say helloMr Smith feels very low


And don’t forget the cat needs a feedAnd don’t forget the cat needs a feed

June is one of those months we all look forward toThe beginning of summer, when there is so much to see and doAlso its the month of my birthday, so its extra special for me

This year I’m off to a stately home with my family for afternoon teaJune with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most

To relax in the garden or perhaps a trip to the coastA train ride to London, to see the Trooping the Colour

A glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of othersPushing our way to the edge of the crowd

Where we smile and wave and feel so proudThen of course there’s Father’s Day

A time to enjoy, a time for play

Flame in June

This year I’m off to a stately home with my family for afternoon tea

This morning I’m walking past fi elds, bright yellow with rapeThe air fi lled with that heady scent, you either love or hate

Walking down a lane, white laced with cow parsleyI remember the Junes of my childhood and how everything has

changed vastlyThe days were always sunny and hot

We would play outside with our whip and topMothers would chat over the garden gate

Making sure we would not be home too lateThe exquisite scents of old fashioned fl owers

The white rambling rose clinging to the garden bowersBroom, Irises, Sweet Peas, the Dorothy Perkins small pink rose

Oh how the scents delighted my noseWhat beauty God has given us to see and best of all its entirely free

So let us face each day with a smile and not a frownFor surely June is the Jewel in the Crown

I always love the sense of excitement as we approach JulySchool term over exams a thing of the past

Children walk happily home, holidays have come at lastMothers busy packing cases,

making sure there is nothing they have forgotAfter such a cold Spring, please let the weather be hot

Families rushing to catch the fast trainOr happily crowding in the car

for a rush to the airport to catch a planeHow blessed children are, if they only knew for children of yesterday

holidays were few

Walking past gardens ablaze with summer fl owersRefreshed from recent copious showers

I refl ect on my childhood as a little East End girlStanding on Wanstead Park Stationwith a bucket and spade in my hand

The journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendTo paddle in the sea and play in the sand

The enchantment of “Peter Pan’s Playground”,The pier we must try and walk

Eating cockles from little saucers, while mums just sitcontentedly with others for a talk

As a teenager starting work I was shy and full of dreadI look back and remember with fondness the words mother said“The world is your oyster, don’t stand behind a closed door,

Step out and see what life holds for you then God will give you more”.

July Thoughts

The enchantment of “Peter Pan’s Playground”,

Eating cockles from little saucers, while mums just sit


A train ride to London, to see the Trooping the ColourA glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of others

Pushing our way to the edge of the crowdPushing our way to the edge of the crowdPushing our way to the edge of the crowd



A glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of othersHockley LivingJune with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most

Hockley LivingJune with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most To relax in the garden or perhaps a trip to the coast

Hockley LivingTo relax in the garden or perhaps a trip to the coast

Hockley LivingHockley LivingThis year I’m off to a stately home with my family for afternoon tea

Hockley LivingThis year I’m off to a stately home with my family for afternoon teaJune with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most

Hockley LivingJune with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most

A glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of othersHockley LivingA glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of othersHockley Living

A train ride to London, to see the Trooping the ColourHockley LivingA train ride to London, to see the Trooping the Colour






To relax in the garden or perhaps a trip to the coast






A train ride to London, to see the Trooping the ColourHockley LivingA train ride to London, to see the Trooping the ColourHockley Living







A glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of othersHockley LivingA glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of othersHockley LivingJune with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most




Also its the month of my birthday, so its extra special for me

Hockley LivingAlso its the month of my birthday, so its extra special for me


Hockley LivingThis year I’m off to a stately home with my family for afternoon teaThis year I’m off to a stately home with my family for afternoon tea

Hockley LivingThis year I’m off to a stately home with my family for afternoon tea

Hockley LivingA train ride to London, to see the Trooping the ColourHockley LivingA train ride to London, to see the Trooping the ColourHockley LivingHockley Living

Pushing our way to the edge of the crowdHockley LivingPushing our way to the edge of the crowdPushing our way to the edge of the crowdHockley LivingPushing our way to the edge of the crowd

Where we smile and wave and feel so proud

Hockley LivingWhere we smile and wave and feel so proud

Hockley LivingHockley LivingThis year I’m off to a stately home with my family for afternoon tea





A glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of othersHockley LivingA glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of others

Pushing our way to the edge of the crowdHockley LivingPushing our way to the edge of the crowdPushing our way to the edge of the crowdHockley LivingPushing our way to the edge of the crowdPushing our way to the edge of the crowdHockley LivingPushing our way to the edge of the crowdHockley Living

Hockley LivingThis year I’m off to a stately home with my family for afternoon tea


Hockley LivingJune with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most

Hockley LivingHockley LivingJune with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most


Hockley LivingTo relax in the garden or perhaps a trip to the coastTo relax in the garden or perhaps a trip to the coast

A train ride to London, to see the Trooping the ColourA glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of othersA glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of others





A glimpse of the Queen, as we stand with hundreds of othersA train ride to London, to see the Trooping the Colour

June with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most To relax in the garden or perhaps a trip to the coast

A train ride to London, to see the Trooping the ColourTo relax in the garden or perhaps a trip to the coast





A train ride to London, to see the Trooping the Colour

June with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most June with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most To relax in the garden or perhaps a trip to the coast



To relax in the garden or perhaps a trip to the coastJune with its long warm days are what we enjoy the most



The journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendTo paddle in the sea and play in the sandTo paddle in the sea and play in the sand

The enchantment of “Peter Pan’s Playground”,

I refl ect on my childhood as a little East End girlStanding on Wanstead Park Stationwith a bucket and spade in my hand

Hockley LivingThe journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendHockley LivingThe journey in a steam train, a day at Southend

To paddle in the sea and play in the sandHockley LivingTo paddle in the sea and play in the sandTo paddle in the sea and play in the sandHockley LivingTo paddle in the sea and play in the sandHockley Living

The journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendHockley LivingThe journey in a steam train, a day at Southend



To paddle in the sea and play in the sandHockley LivingTo paddle in the sea and play in the sandHockley Living

Hockley LivingThe journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendHockley LivingThe journey in a steam train, a day at Southend


with a bucket and spade in my hand

Hockley Livingwith a bucket and spade in my hand

The journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendHockley LivingThe journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendHockley Living



The journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendHockley LivingThe journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendHockley LivingHockley Living


Hockley Livingwith a bucket and spade in my handwith a bucket and spade in my hand



To paddle in the sea and play in the sandHockley LivingTo paddle in the sea and play in the sandHockley Living

Hockley LivingStanding on Wanstead Park Station

Hockley LivingStanding on Wanstead Park Stationwith a bucket and spade in my hand



The journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendHockley LivingThe journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendHockley LivingStanding on Wanstead Park Station




Hockley LivingHockley LivingI refl ect on my childhood as a little East End girl

Hockley LivingI refl ect on my childhood as a little East End girl

Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley Living

The enchantment of “Peter Pan’s Playground”,Hockley Living

The enchantment of “Peter Pan’s Playground”,The enchantment of “Peter Pan’s Playground”,Hockley Living

The enchantment of “Peter Pan’s Playground”,Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingI refl ect on my childhood as a little East End girl

Hockley LivingI refl ect on my childhood as a little East End girlStanding on Wanstead Park Station





To paddle in the sea and play in the sandHockley LivingTo paddle in the sea and play in the sandTo paddle in the sea and play in the sandHockley LivingTo paddle in the sea and play in the sand

The enchantment of “Peter Pan’s Playground”,Hockley Living

The enchantment of “Peter Pan’s Playground”,Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingThe journey in a steam train, a day at Southend

To paddle in the sea and play in the sandTo paddle in the sea and play in the sandThe journey in a steam train, a day at Southend



To paddle in the sea and play in the sandTo paddle in the sea and play in the sand

with a bucket and spade in my handwith a bucket and spade in my handThe journey in a steam train, a day at Southend


Standing on Wanstead Park Stationwith a bucket and spade in my handwith a bucket and spade in my hand

The journey in a steam train, a day at Southendwith a bucket and spade in my hand

The journey in a steam train, a day at Southendwith a bucket and spade in my hand

The journey in a steam train, a day at Southendwith a bucket and spade in my handwith a bucket and spade in my hand

The journey in a steam train, a day at SouthendTo paddle in the sea and play in the sandTo paddle in the sea and play in the sand

Standing on Wanstead Park Stationwith a bucket and spade in my handwith a bucket and spade in my hand

The journey in a steam train, a day at Southend

Standing on Wanstead Park StationStanding on Wanstead Park Stationwith a bucket and spade in my handwith a bucket and spade in my handStanding on Wanstead Park Stationwith a bucket and spade in my handwith a bucket and spade in my hand

I refl ect on my childhood as a little East End girlStanding on Wanstead Park StationStanding on Wanstead Park Stationwith a bucket and spade in my hand

Golden AugustHow quickly the months come and goSummer weather has fi nally arrived

So many outside jobs to doWhere to start, I do not know

Golden cornfi elds ready for harvestGolden beaches, golden limbed children building sandcastles,

please may theirs be the bestGolden marrigolds, meadows carpeted with golden buttercup

Honey bees hovering, sweet nectar to suckI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told

The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”My Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reOh what joyful days they were, what more could one desire

My greatest pleasure, when I was young was cyclingwith my friend through the tiny village of Abridge,

over the bridge and on to Epping for lunchThen into the forest, in the cool to open our sandwiches

and have a good munchOn through country villages down shady twisting lanes

Everywhere dappled in sunlight, the leaves stirring in the breezemaking patterns on the road, as we cycled through the trees

What a shame we have no more hay stacks, Flinging our cycles on the ground

The remains of our lunch, would soon be foundResting our backs against the stackBreathing the sweet smell of hay

there was nothing more, that we could lackThen on to Thaxted for afternoon tea, a short rest,

bikes turned round, the long journey home,My friend, my cycle and me.

The remains of our lunch, would soon be found

How quickly the months come and goSummer weather has fi nally arrived

Golden cornfi elds ready for harvest September of YesterdaysIt is with delight that I remember

Those warm lazy days of golden SeptemberWhen the sun was mellow, the sky misty and hazy

Gardens of Cosmo and Michealmas DaisyThe exquisite smell of an autumn morn

When country folk rose at dawnTo breathe the freshness of the airNo scent on earth could compare

Hedges sparkling with dew covered websBrown speckled spiders, waiting to be fed

Blackberries, Honeysuckle, Rose Hip and SloeIn a short while they all would goPoppies dancing in corn so bright

Farmers harvesting from daybreak till nightThen into the woods, I would wanderTo stand and gaze and there to ponder

Red, yellow, russet brown and goldThe artists stroke I did behold

For in each tree I could clearly seeThe wonders of God’s Tapestry

Those warm lazy days of golden SeptemberThose warm lazy days of golden September

Blackberries, Honeysuckle, Rose Hip and Sloe

Those warm lazy days of golden September

I heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told

The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”My Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi re

Honey bees hovering, sweet nectar to suckI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and boldI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told

My Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reHockley LivingHockley Living

The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley Living

Hockley Living“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told

Hockley Living“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told


The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”

My Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reHockley LivingMy Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reHockley Living

“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told


The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley Living



My Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reHockley LivingMy Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reHockley Living





The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold

Hockley LivingI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told


The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold



The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingHoney bees hovering, sweet nectar to suck

Hockley LivingHoney bees hovering, sweet nectar to suckI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold

Hockley LivingI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold

Hockley LivingHockley LivingGolden marrigolds, meadows carpeted with golden buttercup

Hockley LivingGolden marrigolds, meadows carpeted with golden buttercupGolden marrigolds, meadows carpeted with golden buttercup

Hockley LivingGolden marrigolds, meadows carpeted with golden buttercup

Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingMy Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reHockley LivingMy Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reMy Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reHockley LivingMy Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reOh what joyful days they were, what more could one desireHockley LivingOh what joyful days they were, what more could one desireHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHoney bees hovering, sweet nectar to suck


Hockley LivingI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and boldI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold






The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”Hockley LivingThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”

My Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reHockley LivingMy Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reMy Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reHockley LivingMy Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reHockley LivingHockley LivingI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold






Hockley LivingHockley LivingHoney bees hovering, sweet nectar to suck






Hockley LivingHoney bees hovering, sweet nectar to suck


Hockley LivingI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and boldHoney bees hovering, sweet nectar to suck

Hockley LivingHoney bees hovering, sweet nectar to suck


My Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi re

“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was toldThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”

My Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi reMy Girl Guide captain said as we sat around the camp fi re

“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was toldThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”

“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was toldThe wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”

“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was toldI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told

The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”

I heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told


I heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told

The wood pidgeon sings “Take two cows Taffy”“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was toldI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told




Honey bees hovering, sweet nectar to suckI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold

Honey bees hovering, sweet nectar to suckHoney bees hovering, sweet nectar to suckI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold

Honey bees hovering, sweet nectar to suckI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold

Honey bees hovering, sweet nectar to suckHoney bees hovering, sweet nectar to suckI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and boldI heard a cuckoo sing this morning so clear and bold“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told“Soon his tune will change to cackoo” I once was told

To stand and gaze and there to ponderRed, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and gold

The artists stroke I did beholdThe artists stroke I did beholdThe artists stroke I did behold

Poppies dancing in corn so brightPoppies dancing in corn so brightFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night

Then into the woods, I would wander

Hockley LivingFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night

Hockley LivingFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night

Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley Living

To stand and gaze and there to ponderHockley LivingTo stand and gaze and there to ponder

Red, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley LivingRed, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley LivingRed, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley Living

To stand and gaze and there to ponderHockley LivingTo stand and gaze and there to ponder

Red, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley LivingRed, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley LivingRed, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley Living

To stand and gaze and there to ponderHockley LivingTo stand and gaze and there to ponderHockley LivingTo stand and gaze and there to ponderHockley LivingTo stand and gaze and there to ponderHockley LivingThen into the woods, I would wander

Hockley LivingThen into the woods, I would wander


Hockley LivingThen into the woods, I would wanderTo stand and gaze and there to ponderHockley LivingTo stand and gaze and there to ponderHockley LivingFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night

Hockley LivingFarmers harvesting from daybreak till nightThen into the woods, I would wander






Hockley LivingIn a short while they all would go

Hockley LivingIn a short while they all would goPoppies dancing in corn so bright

Hockley LivingPoppies dancing in corn so bright


The artists stroke I did beholdHockley Living

The artists stroke I did beholdThe artists stroke I did beholdHockley Living

The artists stroke I did beholdHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingPoppies dancing in corn so bright

Hockley LivingPoppies dancing in corn so brightPoppies dancing in corn so bright

Hockley LivingPoppies dancing in corn so brightFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night

Hockley LivingFarmers harvesting from daybreak till nightFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night


Hockley LivingThen into the woods, I would wanderThen into the woods, I would wander

Hockley LivingThen into the woods, I would wanderTo stand and gaze and there to ponderHockley LivingTo stand and gaze and there to ponderTo stand and gaze and there to ponderHockley LivingTo stand and gaze and there to ponder

Red, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley LivingRed, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley LivingRed, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley LivingRed, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley LivingRed, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and goldHockley LivingRed, yellow, russet brown and gold

The artists stroke I did beholdHockley Living

The artists stroke I did beholdThe artists stroke I did beholdHockley Living

The artists stroke I did beholdHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night


Hockley LivingThen into the woods, I would wanderTo stand and gaze and there to ponderTo stand and gaze and there to ponder

Red, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and goldTo stand and gaze and there to ponder

Red, yellow, russet brown and goldRed, yellow, russet brown and gold

Then into the woods, I would wanderTo stand and gaze and there to ponder

Farmers harvesting from daybreak till nightThen into the woods, I would wanderTo stand and gaze and there to ponder

Farmers harvesting from daybreak till nightThen into the woods, I would wanderTo stand and gaze and there to ponderThen into the woods, I would wanderTo stand and gaze and there to ponderThen into the woods, I would wander

Farmers harvesting from daybreak till nightThen into the woods, I would wanderThen into the woods, I would wanderTo stand and gaze and there to ponderTo stand and gaze and there to ponder

Poppies dancing in corn so brightFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night

Then into the woods, I would wander

Poppies dancing in corn so brightFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night

Then into the woods, I would wanderFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night

Then into the woods, I would wanderFarmers harvesting from daybreak till nightFarmers harvesting from daybreak till night

An October WalkThe sky had darkened as I left the fi eld and entered the lane,

pulling my coat warmly round me, I quickened my steps to beat the rain.Earlier a pale sun had peeped shyly from behind a cloud,

warmly caressing my cheek before tantalisingly slipping back,as though playing hide and seek.

It had been so quiet walking in Hockley Woods,early morning doggie walkers, had long since gone

all I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,

the rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.

For very soon they would be stark and bare,beside the green holly, it just wasn’t fair.

And so I continued on my way, all of creation on display,the chaffi nch pecking beneath the hornbeam, was that a woodpecker?

Or was it a dreamThe crunch of the leaves under my feet,

I needed to fi nd where the paths would meet,a time to stand a time to stare, a time to refl ect, a time to care.

Was I concerned by my neighbour’s plight, or did I pass by like a ship in the night

and so I stood sad and bemused,how like life and which would I choose.I followed the fragrance of the brier rose,entwined with the blackberry lying lowI was sure that this was the way to go.

It would twist and turn, I would stumble and fall,but at the end I would stand up tall.

For the hand that would guide me, would be steadfast and strongand he would be with me my whole life long.

And so tears mingled with rain, I came to the end of Gusted Hall Lane.My little dog waiting for his bone.

I soon would reach my haven, my home

And so tears mingled with rain, I came to the end of Gusted Hall Lane.And so tears mingled with rain, I came to the end of Gusted Hall Lane.

It was dark, bleak and gloomyOne of those days, most of us dread

When we fi nd it so hard to get out of bedI could hear the rain beating hard against my window

And as I looked outside my spirit sankFor everywhere was wet and dankGusty winds toss autumn leaves

Twisting and turning forever downwarduntil they fell gently on the sodden carpet belowand so too my thoughts took a downward leap

to where they lay in a broken heapAs I looked out on that grey wet day

I felt the need to gently prayNovember surely the saddest of months.Young lives lost, that were held so dear

Will we have time to shed a tear?And yet dear Lord, you give us hope

I will not sit around and mopeMy thoughts they will not unhappy beFor through the clouds the sun I seeBriskly I walked with my little dog

In sheer delight, I began to jogUp in the sky an early moon

Surely it was awake too soon?Across the fi elds the farm lay still

And so I continued up the hillCottages with lights so brightTo lighten up the coming nightThe afternoon was near its end

When suddenly around the bendMy little church ablaze with light

I stood in awe at that beautiful sightAll at once the bells were ringing

And from inside the people singingWith joy in my heart I headed for home

Knowing now that I was not aloneWhen life goes wrong and we strive awhile

“He” will carry us that extra mile

November


For very soon they would be stark and bare,For very soon they would be stark and bare,beside the green holly, it just wasn’t fair.beside the green holly, it just wasn’t fair.

all I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.all I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,

the rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Living

Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.

For very soon they would be stark and bare,Hockley LivingFor very soon they would be stark and bare,Hockley Living

reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.

For very soon they would be stark and bare,Hockley LivingFor very soon they would be stark and bare,Hockley Livingthe rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,

Hockley Livingthe rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,


For very soon they would be stark and bare,Hockley LivingFor very soon they would be stark and bare,

the rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,


Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Living





reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley LivingThe snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,

Hockley LivingThe snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,the rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,



For very soon they would be stark and bare,Hockley LivingFor very soon they would be stark and bare,Hockley LivingThe snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,



reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley LivingThe snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,



Hockley Livingearly morning doggie walkers, had long since gone

Hockley Livingearly morning doggie walkers, had long since gone

all I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.

Hockley Livingall I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.

Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Living

beside the green holly, it just wasn’t fair.Hockley Living

beside the green holly, it just wasn’t fair.Hockley LivingHockley Livingall I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.

Hockley Livingall I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,

Hockley LivingThe snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,


Hockley Livingthe rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,the rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,


reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.Hockley Livingreluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.

For very soon they would be stark and bare,Hockley LivingFor very soon they would be stark and bare,For very soon they would be stark and bare,Hockley LivingFor very soon they would be stark and bare,

beside the green holly, it just wasn’t fair.Hockley Living

beside the green holly, it just wasn’t fair.Hockley Livingall I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.

Hockley Livingall I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,

Hockley LivingThe snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,

reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.For very soon they would be stark and bare,

reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.For very soon they would be stark and bare,


For very soon they would be stark and bare,

The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,the rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,

reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.For very soon they would be stark and bare,

The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,the rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,

reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.the rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,

reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.reluctant to shed their summer dress, they wanted to look their very best.the rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,


For very soon they would be stark and bare,




all I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,

the rustle of leaves from the trees overhead,The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,


all I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.all I could hear was the robin’s sweet song.The snap of a twig where the squirrel fed,




Across the fi elds the farm lay stillAnd so I continued up the hillAnd so I continued up the hillCottages with lights so brightCottages with lights so brightTo lighten up the coming nightTo lighten up the coming night

In sheer delight, I began to jogIn sheer delight, I began to jogIn sheer delight, I began to jogIn sheer delight, I began to jogUp in the sky an early moonUp in the sky an early moon

Surely it was awake too soon?

Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley Living

Across the fi elds the farm lay stillHockley LivingAcross the fi elds the farm lay still

And so I continued up the hillHockley LivingAnd so I continued up the hillHockley LivingSurely it was awake too soon?

Hockley LivingSurely it was awake too soon?Across the fi elds the farm lay stillHockley LivingAcross the fi elds the farm lay stillHockley LivingSurely it was awake too soon?

Hockley LivingSurely it was awake too soon?Across the fi elds the farm lay stillHockley LivingAcross the fi elds the farm lay still

And so I continued up the hillHockley LivingAnd so I continued up the hillHockley LivingSurely it was awake too soon?


And so I continued up the hillHockley LivingAnd so I continued up the hillHockley LivingUp in the sky an early moon

Hockley LivingUp in the sky an early moonSurely it was awake too soon?


And so I continued up the hillHockley LivingAnd so I continued up the hillHockley Living

Briskly I walked with my little dog

Hockley LivingBriskly I walked with my little dog

In sheer delight, I began to jog

Hockley LivingIn sheer delight, I began to jog

Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingIn sheer delight, I began to jog

Hockley LivingIn sheer delight, I began to jogIn sheer delight, I began to jog

Hockley LivingIn sheer delight, I began to jogUp in the sky an early moon

Hockley LivingUp in the sky an early moonUp in the sky an early moon


Hockley LivingSurely it was awake too soon?Surely it was awake too soon?

Hockley LivingSurely it was awake too soon?Across the fi elds the farm lay stillHockley LivingAcross the fi elds the farm lay stillAcross the fi elds the farm lay stillHockley LivingAcross the fi elds the farm lay still

And so I continued up the hillHockley LivingAnd so I continued up the hillAnd so I continued up the hillHockley LivingAnd so I continued up the hillCottages with lights so brightHockley LivingCottages with lights so brightTo lighten up the coming night

Hockley LivingTo lighten up the coming night

Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingUp in the sky an early moon


Hockley LivingSurely it was awake too soon?Across the fi elds the farm lay still

And so I continued up the hillAcross the fi elds the farm lay still


And so I continued up the hill

Up in the sky an early moonSurely it was awake too soon?

Across the fi elds the farm lay stillAnd so I continued up the hill


And so I continued up the hill



And so I continued up the hillAnd so I continued up the hillAcross the fi elds the farm lay still

In sheer delight, I began to jogUp in the sky an early moon


Up in the sky an early moonUp in the sky an early moonSurely it was awake too soon?

Across the fi elds the farm lay still

Up in the sky an early moonSurely it was awake too soon?

In sheer delight, I began to jogIn sheer delight, I began to jog

My Childhood ChristmasThere was no man in my Christmas

Just my mother, my nana, my brother and meYou see when I was four my father died of an illness called T.B.

Times were hard and when the money was spent,back to work my mother went

But she was determined as you will see,our Christmases’ would happy be

Home from work she would rush, puddings and cakes to makeWe would all have a stir, then into the oven to bake

Delicious smells pervaded the house,we all felt so hungry even the mouse

Then round the table we would go, making our Christmas cardsDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow

There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,blue, yellow and red

Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,logs to stack by the side of the grate

Yes this is what Christmas had to be for my mother, my nana,my brother and me

Christmas Eve came at last, a trip to town on a train so fastTo gaze in shop windows sparkling and bright,

but soon they would be blacked out for the nightNo guns would bang, the sirens would cease,

and all the world would be at peaceChristmas morn awake at dawn, a lumpy pillowcase full of toys

A walk to church with the girls and boysBut of all the rest I think the best, was Christmas afternoon,

We would pull our chairs around the fi re,watching the fl ames go higher and higher

Warming our hands, cheeks aglow,chestnuts roasting in the grate below

Nana dozing in her chair, my mother cracking nuts for us all to shareA book for my brother, a doll for me,

Yes this was our Christmas it had to beFor my mother, my nana, my brother and me Poems written by Iris Jean Thomson


There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,blue, yellow and red

Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,logs to stack by the side of the gratelogs to stack by the side of the grate

Then round the table we would go, making our Christmas cardsThen round the table we would go, making our Christmas cardsDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snowDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow

There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,

Hockley LivingThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley LivingThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley LivingThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley LivingThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley LivingThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley LivingThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley Living


Hockley LivingThere are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,

Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley LivingThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley Living



blue, yellow and redHockley Livingblue, yellow and redHockley Living



blue, yellow and redHockley Livingblue, yellow and redHockley LivingDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow

Hockley LivingDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snowThere are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,


blue, yellow and redHockley Livingblue, yellow and red

Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley LivingThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley LivingDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow

Hockley LivingDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snowDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow



blue, yellow and redHockley Livingblue, yellow and redHockley Living

Hockley Livingwe all felt so hungry even the mouse

Hockley Livingwe all felt so hungry even the mouse

Then round the table we would go, making our Christmas cards

Hockley LivingThen round the table we would go, making our Christmas cardsThen round the table we would go, making our Christmas cards

Hockley LivingThen round the table we would go, making our Christmas cards



Hockley Livinglogs to stack by the side of the grateHockley Livinglogs to stack by the side of the grate

Yes this is what Christmas had to be for my mother, my nana,Hockley Living

Yes this is what Christmas had to be for my mother, my nana,Hockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingHockley LivingThen round the table we would go, making our Christmas cards



Hockley LivingThen round the table we would go, making our Christmas cardsDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow





Hockley LivingThere are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,



blue, yellow and redHockley Livingblue, yellow and redblue, yellow and redHockley Livingblue, yellow and red

Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley LivingThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,Hockley LivingThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,

logs to stack by the side of the grateHockley Livinglogs to stack by the side of the grateHockley Living





Hockley LivingDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow




Hockley LivingHockley LivingThen round the table we would go, making our Christmas cards

















Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,

Drawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snowThere are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,

blue, yellow and redThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,

Drawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snowDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snowThere are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,

blue, yellow and redThen into the garden, holly boughs to break,




Then into the garden, holly boughs to break,

Then round the table we would go, making our Christmas cardsThen round the table we would go, making our Christmas cardsDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snowDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snowDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow

There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,blue, yellow and red

Then round the table we would go, making our Christmas cardsDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snowDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow

There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,Drawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow





There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,Drawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow

Then round the table we would go, making our Christmas cardsThen round the table we would go, making our Christmas cardsDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snowDrawing robins, churches with steeples and plenty of snow

There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,There are chains to make, my mother said, thin strips of paper,

Documents

A Year in Poetry