‘Twas the Friday before Christmas and all through the shop,
machinery was whirring, with a chug, clang, and pop!
The product was nestled and shelved with great care,
in the knowledge that new owners soon would be there.
And this mamma-CEO, whose energy was sapped,
had just settled down for an above-desk nap.
When, out in the parking lot, there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the “boardroom” to see what was a’matter.
Away to the freight door, I flew in a jolt,
and threw it overhead by loosening the bolt!
(The rain on the crest of the dirty, old snow,
gave the luster of sap season to the landscape below.)
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
but a big eighteen-wheeler, license plate: RND-EER!
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles his orders they came,
and he whistled and shouted and called them by name:
“Six Saplings, ten Warmers, a dozen Grill Covers,
some Grill Grates, a Smoker, and a Seedling (for mother);
“some touch-up paint, a few gift cards, and a big, red bow!
Here, I’ll help you load up, so we can all go!”
We spoke not a word, but went straight to our work.
We filled that big truck, then Clause turned with a jerk.
“The sap will flow well this year,” he said.
(Which gave me to know, we have nothing to dread!)
He sprang to his seat, gave the teamsters a whistle,
and flew down the drive, like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he turned onto Rte. 2:
“Merry Christmas to All, and a Happy New Year too!”