Spirit of the lakes,
unseen but strong in presence,
adding a touch of magic
to all who pass.  Even
the cattle stop mid-chew
and look up inquisitively,
and sheep stand still and calm
as the enchantment catches them,
holding them in warm embrace
as only Cumbria can.

George squeezed through
a gap in the fence one day,
in hope he'd find
a quicker way
to reach his gran's
just outside town,
but what he saw
made him frown,
for where the street
and road should be,
he found a forest
near the sea.

If today were yesterday,
what would I do differently?
I'd smile more.
I'd frown less.
I'd walk with pride
and hold my head high.
I'd do something
that helps someone else,
think less of my failures
and more of my achievements.
I'd make the most of each moment
and remind myself
that someone, somewhere
is for sure, worse off than me,
that I am truly priveleged.
I'd remember that
whatever people say.
I am unique
just as they are.

If today were tomorrow,
I'd know I'd done
the best I could,
sleep in complete peace
and make the most

of now.

Where did that book go?
I left it here,
right here
on my desk
just last night,
yet today - no sign of it.

Now that's what I call
a mystery story....

To a little girl lost.
I hope you find your way home.
I hope you're not afraid
or lonely
or missing the arms of your loved ones.
They hold you forever
in their hearts
and that's where you'll stay.
Be bold little one, be brave.
Stand tall.
Be proud.
You'll always be loved
more than you know.

Little girl lost
find your way home.

Where did that book go?
I left it here,
right here
on my desk
just last night,
yet today - no sign of it.

Now that's what I call
a mystery story....

My Writer's and Artist's Year Book
knows me well.
It knows what I want to write
and where I want to send it.

So why - oh why -
does it stay obstinately closed
as I sit  and wait
for inspiration ...?