The years that work best
Are those when the unplanned is expected.
Small children, ill, scupper anticipated gatherings
Parents, ill, need unscheduled visiting,
Ourselves ill, hijack the scheduled shopping.
Through this we learn
That last minute shopping rarely works
We stock up early on medicines, and other essentials
We consider the case that all shopping is cancelled,
And always, always have a spare festive meal
Tucked away just in case.
And the unexpected occasion is often the best –
No tradition to worry about,
Making the best of the moment,
Making time to rest.
Jo Hansen 