Childhood

Run barefoot thro' the park, Dare to stay out after dark. Kick up a storm of Autumn leaves, Watch the birds nest in the eaves. Go skinny dipping in the brook, Climb a tree to test your pluck. Race thro' woods in dead of night, Look for fairies in pale moonlight. Watch the trains thunder down the track, See the smoke belch from its stack. Peer down the dark tunnel up ahead, Here there be dragons we fear and dread. Witches fly across the moon, Casting spells riding on a broom. Don't let them see or lest you'll be, Turned into a toad for all to see. Run fast, run fast, Get home at last. Ragged breath from heaving chest, Safe and sound at mothers breast. Happy now, sat by her chair, Your not a meal in the dragons lair. Boys and girls play out at night, Trying to be brave but full of fright Mother has called me in for bed, A welcome drink and toasted bread. It's the end of the day, For a sleepy head. © Dave Timperley 2012