The Bubbles on the Tree

He’s two years old
And while he sleeps
Excitement-wearied, in the afternoon
Some magic is afoot
His parents dress the Christmas tree
To glow and sparkle
Glass baubles, white lights
In careful garlanding
Now see the wonder in his eyes
Reflections dancing there
His cry delighted -
Look that mummy- oh-
The bubbles on the tree!

We’ll hang the moment
Magical, with others just as bright
Like parents tearful
Both sides of the world
Seeing Santa with their child
Adults conspiring set on make–believe
Annual re-creation
Of remembered Christmas past
They shine and shimmer
Lit again, a million frosty stars

12th August 2009, on autoroute to Dieppe