By Neena Strichart
Publisher
Last holiday season I wrote a poem based on our experiences as an entry in the Daisy Lane Parade. I’ve decided to revise it a bit to update it for this year’s parade, which was held last Saturday evening!
‘Twas parade night on Daisy and all through the lane
the weather was mild, so no need to refrain.
The entries were lined up for hours on end
waiting for their turns to march down the bend.
The children were shouting “Merry Christmas” to all
it was clear they were having a holiday ball.
Some folks were all bundled as they stood or they sat
with blankets and gloves and most wearing a hat
Politicians were waving from convertibles bright
as the evening progressed to a beautiful night.
The horses were prancing as bands walked in tune
with crowds waving madly with lights or balloons.
On Segways the staff rode controlling each entry
proceeding with caution and acting as gentry.
The grownups and children all smiling with glee
so happy that to see this— not just on TV.
As the schools, groups and others put on a great show
with dancing and music, the spirit did grow.
The dogs from group Bark did give out free books
to each child and got back several “thanks” and sweet looks.
The police cars rode down flashing lights with great pride
as cheerleaders strutted with flags by their side.
The Port folks were present with nautical float
with lights strung with care on a rather large boat.
The Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts were walking in line
as Girl Scouts and Brownies kept up just in time.
It all seemed like magic, adding fuel to the fire
with bulbs on the houses just higher and higher.
Each home on the lane was all decked to the hilt
with trees, deer and Santas— decorations they built.
Some houses were gilded with signs of good cheer
one even reminded, “let your doggie drink here.”
A waystation set for our four-legged friends
the kindness, it seemed, would not ever end.
There were others who rode in the lane late that eve
Judd McIlvain, and sure my cute husband Steve.
From Bixby Blair showed up and was all decked out
with Knolls Ranger’s girlfriend and a laugh and a shout.
The folks in charge this year worked hard— I can tell
on details they stressed over each bow and bell.
Such organization deserves our attention
as each of those helping sure faced lots of tension.
As the evening continued they stood shoulder to shoulder
so glad that the weather wasn’t getting much colder.
When parade time was fading— all were waiting to hear
their favorite man calling from a sleigh with reindeer.
They finally heard “Ho Ho Ho” without pause
that’s right— it was him— big as life, Santa Claus.
Although they expected a much different ride
St. Nick came by fire truck without reindeer to guide.
He wished all the kiddies a year full of cheer
we sure hope he will come back again for next year!
