The First New Year I Remember (Free Verse)

Daddy was working all night,

Mama wanted a memorable New Year's Eve and Day

for her two youngest, Richie and Mary Jean.

But she didn't have much money, so she had to improvise.

First, we washed our hands with a new silver dollar,

So we would never want for money,

Then we helped Mama pull out big pots and pans,

Heavy skillets and large metal spoons.

We turned them upside down, tried not to fall asleep,

and looked at mama with drowsy eyes, as Mama

Told us, this was New Year's Eve.

At the stroke of midnight, it would be the New Year.

Then we must beat the pans and make lots of noise,

And shout, Happy New Year! We did just that!

Ah the years have come and the years have gone,

Cocktails, confetti, expensive restaurants,

Stunning fireworks, holiday dress, parades,

Laughter, parties, New Year wishes,

But was there ever a happier New Year's Eve?