Recall those stroppy scary sheep? (which was a previous rhyme)
With rain due later, longer morning walk today whilst fine:-

I knew exactly where I was, 'cos it's a driving route,
but cricket club and pub were quite surprising reached by foot.

Knowing 'where I am', though, doesn't help with 'which way home',
but that's exploring for you, as sweatily we roam.

Quarry Carpark? up the road, then gazing vaguely round
in hope of landmarks/signposts - here's a path that's going down

to Compstall! Close enough, I think, and set off with relief
to - lamby field - oh dear.  Short lead, dog close, I grit my teeth;

the sheepies move out of the way, they're really rather sweet,
despite the dog's excitement at every little bleat.

We stride on, a lovely path, and then more than 'oh dear';
I see THAT FARM, I see THOSE SHEEP. Language is worse, I fear.

One hour twenty if I turn around to retrace track;
Haven't time or energy to walk all the way back!

By the stile, I hope to find another path to go -
the sheep approach and stare. No choice, I simply have to - so,

to his surprise, the dog's picked up and in my armpit clenched,
hand through collar too, deep breath, and climb over the fence.

Stare ahead! Just walk! At least the dog stays still with shock -
They're flippin' huge! and run at us, each member of the flock.

They push and buffet, shove and bump, 'baa' fit to raise the dead,
I'm jostled off the path; walk, walk! ignore the mounting dread.

Please God don't let them knock me down, please God keep Badger calm,
Help me across this field! and then a window at the farm

opens - a hand waves 'Over there'. (I'd feared an angry shout)
I turn with gratitude to gate and finally get out.

Drop the dog from aching arm and, trembling, get home.
Cup of tea, then, shaking still, express in stupid poem.