First, Brent and Trish came to visit. They stayed in the Evergreen visitors flat ( now no longer available) which was ideal. We had a very happy two weeks together. Then Danielle and I brought out my third book of poems. I am particularly proud of the cover design which features Danielle's thread art. In August Stephanie, Jane and I went to McGregor for the poetry festival. That was a very good weekend. Steph and I were quite successful with our combined presentation. We had the most appreciative audience we could have wished for. Soon after that thee was my trip to Hogsback. Then the most exciting thing to have happened. The acquiring of a new Grandchild,. Dorothy's younger daughter, Amanda got in touch with us.after all these years. Luke was the one contacted first. I never expected this to happen. First we sent messages and e-mails and then we had the joy of meeting her and spending Christmas together. Eleanor and Andreas were here for Christmas too. What a very happy time!
Eleanor expressed what I think we all experienced. She said that meeting Amanda was not like meeting someone new. It felt as though we had known her always. It was a pity that she and her partner, Carlyle couldn't stay longer, but I am sure they will come here again. I am glad that Amanda and Danielle, the two granddaughters who are much of an age are such good friends.
RAIN
AT CHRISTMAS TIME
After
the drought when
the
edges of leaves on the sage bush
start
to curl, the daisies die
my
lawn turns to dust and straw
and
everything is dry and grey,
all
unexpected there comes
the
blissful rain,
splashing
the windscreen
filling
the dogs’ bowls
washing
the potted pelargoniums,
and
we collect in a small crowded studio
come
together today, damp and laughing from
across
the town, across the country
and
across the world
