ABPA - Australian Bush Poets Association

Written somewhat tongue in cheek but with more than an element of truth - I have to keep reminding myself that Christmas is but one day of the year. If I had my way and was physically able to still do so I would be camped with the girls near a creek enjoying the peace and serenity and marvelling at the most beautiful display of Christmas lights in the heavens above. All would be welcome to share my camp but knowing my mob - suspect it would be quiet...my Brother would probably come along and if the road in was not too rough my Son and DIL would show up - the rest would be to far out of their comfort zones



WHEN ENOUGH IS MORE THAN ENOUGH.


My family is dysfunctional I love them just the same
but have to say to keep the peace becomes a bloody pain,
every Christmas chore is doubled – and this year I just said No
either all join in together or the whole things a no show.

I don’t think they appreciated my cranky little rort
but I’m getting old and these days a bun fight is not what’s sought.
I’m quite happy spending Christmas day alone with just my girls
and that wish may just be granted, judging by the way lips curled.

Christmas time is purported to be about peace and good cheer
and if there is none forthcoming why then are we gathered here?
None had an answer for me but I hope it makes them think.
If they don’t turn up no matter – all the more for me to drink.

So I’ve cut back on the Christmas cake, mince pies I’ve but a few.
Done away with the turkey so a chook will have to do.
There’s some king prawns in the freezer, brandy custard in the fridge.
That’s a feast for me and my two – our Christmas wishes are ridgey didge.




Maureen Clifford © 12/11

My family is not dysfunctional but we are spread out over the countryside , it doesn't make sense to scramble around for one day of the year, We just catch up when circumstances make it possible.
I don't believe in Christmas day as the day of peace and goodwill, I think every day has to be made like that if possible.
I wonder if the bloke who blared his car horn and snarled at me yesterday because I didn't get out of his way quick enough, will be toasting peace and goodwill on Sunday.

Best wishes to you and and the " girls "

Thanks Neville and to you. I saw a similar display of aggression yesterday by two young blokes in a Ute hassling a lady turning into the entry to the shopping centre from a somewhat narrow street - they had to slow down for all of 2 seconds and that of course involved lots of horn blaring and yelling out of their window. If I was their Mother I would be giving them both a belt around the ear hole and a good tongue lashing to boot, but they went on their way unheeded.

Suspect the only Christmas spirit they know comes from a bottle.

Sounds like you will have a peaceful Christmas Maureen - just as it should be!

oh Marty I thought you were relating a past event.


My daughter and her crew are heading down to the Sunshine coast and my son and his lot are going camping in the Byfield National park so I will get the job of looking after all six dogs and one spoilt cat. Might even have sone ham and eggs for breakfast as a treat, now if anyone else wants a chat on christmas day I will be here as usual.

Bob