Impressions – From Nicky & Alan
(With apologies to Pam Ayres for poor syntax, sloppy rhyme and awkward rhythm)

With a group from South Cerney We went on a journey
To that jewel of an island Recently dealt a bad hand
By a Tsunami so grand It united our band.

From Colombo we started A trip not for faint-hearted
With Azhar as our guide A 40 seat coach in to ride.

The smell of exotic spice And acres and acres of rice
We saw coconuts, pineapple, papaya As the mountains loomed higher & higher.

We rode elephants through jungle and water Climbed rocks that made some of us falter
Steeped in the history of Buddha with awe, Monks, temples and statues we saw.

The school gave us a welcome with fanfare Their song, dance & happiness to share
Our small gifts gave them delight Our cameras clicked such a sight
Let’s continue to show that we care.

All was moving along at a pace When with a bang & a jolt – disaster. Our bus could go no faster!
But Azzar to the rescue & our path to smooth Spices & massage our bodies to sooth.

In a bus quite old and our hearts beating fast We continued to climb fearing the road wouldn’t last
On a one way track with no going back We’d seen oncoming traffic and drop offs horrific
Then midnight, a sigh of relief The Grand Hotel, a tough of magic.

Next day was downhill – We saw tea-pickers, waterfalls & wildlife
On precipitous roads, We all feared strife

Our driver was intrepid Around bends and curves,
We saw scenery magnificent With shattered nerves.

What wonders we saw on our safari tour Elephants, crocs, deer, leopard and boar,
And so many birds And buffalo herds We could all go back again for more.

On the drive to Kosgoda, Tears welled in our eyes That natural forces could cause such demise.
The poverty and ruined villages struck us But life went on without fuss,
With children’s wide-eyed innocence And with smiles that were so immense.

And then to the Riverina to relax On sun lounges our bodies collapse
Aerobics, craft village and deep sea fishing Its just that the fish were missing.
Each day has given us pleasure And lasting memories to treasure

To Rohan & Ruvalli we express our love For allowing us all to share the above
With thanks to Derek & Sue And all the rest of the crew
We extend our welcome to all here
To our country of sand, sun, wine and cold beer.