as i walk in winter’s garden
past a birch tree and green ivy
down to where old seating’s lonely
in a corner in the dark
there i turn to face the red brick
of my home and on the decking
fairy lights glow so inviting
lifts the spirits soothes the heart
hanging from the beams are lanterns
table covered potted planting
seasonal in red/gold colours
festive dressing our delight
where our young ones like to mingle
where their laughter echoes loudly
cold air cheered while breath condenses
wrapped in layers stars shine bright
count my blessings i am thankful
for the gifts of all i’m given
in a world that’s rocked by conflict
marred by death, destroyed the light
where destruction and division
blitzes souls and hopes for future
all while logs inside our burner
blaze and spread their warmth by night