The Christmas Loaf
is a year in the baking
is stuffed with good things
raisins and ginger
cinnamon and nutmeg
almonds and clove.
is long in the kneading
pummelled and rolled
folded and pummelled
again until yeast is blended
and can begin its work.
is cosseted in its proving
kept by the radiator
tucked into its bowl
with a snowy tea towel,
given time to grow.
is aromatic in its baking
turning golden in the oven.
Is brought to the table,
broken between us shared
and is gone.
Angela Topping
Wishing you all a very joyous Christmas and Yuletide Festival.
Angela Topping 