The below poem was written when I brought my family to the Lake District in 2011. For me, it was a return journey since 1985. For them, it was the first trip to this wonderful location. The trip was made more enjoyable as I received the news that I would be promoted to the rank of Brigadier General in the following month when we returned to Singapore.

Coming back to the Lake District

Twenty-five years a flashing meteor,

Going forth from a life restrict

Forty-four years an enriching tour,

But deep in my heart, the English way

Once a dream, now just a special sway.

It always starts with Windermere

Where the rail meets the road,

Years ago it was a small town dear

Now it is a popular tourist route,

Here William Wordsworth used to “dance with the daffodils”

Where his “heart with pleasure fills”.

Kays Cottage is where my family stays

Jean, the warden, and her breakfast are the best,

Walking down to Bowness makes our day

Cruising up to Ambleside is certainly not a dash,

Here Beatrix Potter used to work on Peter Rabbit

Where at the Hill Top Farm she did her bit.

The finale is to mount Orrest Head

Where at seven-eight-four, we view Lake Windermere like a bird,

The descent to the lakeside has no ache

And the stream next door has absolutely no dirt,

For deep in my heart, nothing could ever restrict

The joy of coming back to the Lake District.

Colonel YEO SEE PENG

Summer 2011

England

#Lake District #William Wordsworth #Beatrix Potter