by Emily Clott, Class of 2012, with apologies to Clement Moore
’Twas the night before moving and at CAF
Every creature was stirring, from Lynne to the staff
The boxes were stacked by the exits with care
‘Cuz men and their moving vans soon would be there.
The docents were nestled all safe in their beds
While visions of new tour routes danced in their heads.
Constance in her red shirt, scarf, mittens and cap
Had just settled down for a long winter’s nap
When on her computer arose such a clatter
She sprang from her bed to check Volunteer Matters.
Away to her laptop she flew in a dash
Turned off the screen saver, logged on in a flash
The screen on her laptop glowed such a warm glow
Twas almost like river cruise season, you know.
When what to her wondering eyes should appear
But a batch of new messages laden with fear.
From so many docents all worried and blue
She knew that she had lots of listening to do.
More rapid than eagles their doubts they explained
In emails and google groups, how they exclaimed!
Now Modern! now Deco! now Treasures! now Must See!
On Masterworks, Historic, El, and Evosky
From the Railway Exchange to the new CAC
How will we manage all this effectively?
More rapid than Twitter our move, it drew near
But Constance knew docents had nothing to fear.
Task forces, committees, Project Fresh, even sheperds
Have planned the whole process, have pondered the methods.
New routes have been mapped, building plans look inviting
Directors of tours fine new manuals are writing.
Our dear Jen suggested good stories to tell
And docents beyond a doubt will tell them well.
As the year 2017 fades from our sight
We can truthfully say this: We will be all right.
While the CAF move will for sure not be easy
There’s really no reason for us to be queasy.
So as Constance exclaimed as she turned out the light:
“Happy New Year to all, and to all a good night!”
Thanks Emily! Your songs and poems are always delightful. Happy new year!
Proud to be a classmate of the very talented Emily ! Class of 2012 rocks !! And Emily, GREAT job !
Wow! What a fun take on our move, our intrepid leader Constance, and our undaunted enthusiasm for a new challenge. Brava, Emily!
Great Fun! Thanks, Emily!
Very well written and engaging!
Emily, your poem is wonderful, lots of fun.
A fun read! Thanks, Emily. / Susan J
Could a tour in rhyme be next? Thanks for this wonderfully fun piece Emily. Happy Holidays.
Worthy of the Bard himself.