A visit from Lissie; a poem

‘Twas two weeks before Christmas, when all through the Parkway

Not an person was stirring, not even a Smouse;

The stage was set with garland, ornaments, and miniature trees,

In hopes that Lissie and special piano traveler Jo Dudderidge would soon perform;

The audience were nestled inside, all snug from the snow falling outside,

While visions of Christmas songs and new covers danced in our heads,

When up on the stage there arose such a clatter,

Lissie stepped up and started with a Pretender cover,

Her hand grabbing at the velvet onesie,

Belting “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas” and energizing the crowd,

When what to my wondering ears did sound,

Lissie originals of “Oh Mississippi”, “Don’t Give Up on Me”, and “When I’m Alone” sprung forth.

Each song bringing familiar cheer and comfort,

Lissie skillfully distancing the microphone from her mouth through each burst,

I knew in moments we were in for something special.

She whistled and shouted, and sang new covers with glee,

Joni Mitchell’s “River” and Dixie Chicks “Cowboy Take Me Away” both expertly sang,

While Slade “Merry Xmas Everybody” surprised the audience, a British classic.

And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the stage

Such classics like “Silent Night” and “Best Days”

No candles were hoisted, only cell phone flames,

Lissie’s eyes- how they twinkled! Her dimples, how merry!

A smile from her eye and a twist in her outfit,

Soon gave me to know we had nothing to dread;

Lissie unpacked her bag with “In Sleep” and Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams”

Each chilling us in chairs, with Otts’ Pop Indie Pop in hand.

Lissie sprang to her exit, to Jo she gave a whistle,

But heard the encore and stayed for a something unofficial.

A song was taught quickly, a hope for perfection,

Jo delivered “Ojai” and the crowd loved the selection,

And giving a nod, a standing ovation

Lissie pulled on her boots, ere strode out of sight–

Leaving us with a happy Christmas, and to all an amazing night!