Twas The Night Before Camp Meeting

It's camp meeting time again and today I got thinking about how many camp meetings I have been to - 25. I have never missed any. And every year the same pre-camp meeting chaos rules. I stay up late the night before getting ready, much of which with proper organization could be avoided. Now that I have kids it's even more of a challenge, but, it has always been worth it. So, I got this bright idea today to write a poem. I know of a few people who have the same habits as mine and can relate. This is for you - I hope you enjoy.

TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CAMP MEETING

Twas the night before camp meeting and no one was in bed;
The house was a mess and there was chaos instead.
The stockings were strewn on the bed without care,
Along with nylons, toiletries, and tons of underwear.

The kids were running wild when they should have been asleep;
They were wound up and excited - mom wanted to weep.
They were playing and fighting and hiding and screaming,
Their faces lit up and their smiles just a-beaming.

When suddenly from the bedroom there arose such a clatter;
That mama broke speed records to see what was the matter.
And what to her extreme dismay should she see?
Broken glass where the mirror should be!

All packing had ceased for a decision about whether
To spank some kids’ bums or bang heads together.
But calmness prevailed and mom just shook her head;
And kissed them both soundly and tucked them in bed.

So with relative peace she continued her chore –
To take just six shirts, or to pack six more?
Going through her closet - well it had been a while;
And it soon became evident she was way out of style.

Wishing she’d made time for that trip to the mall;
Because last year’s skirts had shrunk five sizes too small!
She packs what she has with a shake of her head -
She’ll have to settle for her old clothes instead.

While she continues her work the dryer starts “dinging”;
So she carts up the final clothes that she’s bringing.
Ten loads of laundry later, she thinks that she’s done
And can finally finish the packing that she has begun.

As she zips up her suitcases with very big sigh;
Her son, who should be sleeping, lets out a loud cry.
“Mom! I want you!” He wails in distress;
So mom must pause again in the midst of her mess.

When finally settled, she sneaks out in relief -
To face the big mess that has brought her such grief.
The luggage is piled up high on the floor;
She moves the bags over to make room for some more.

She tackles the dishes and picks up some toys,
Trying her best not to make any noise.
At last the house is tidy and she is finally through;
When she remembers that she has one more thing to do.

It’s off to the Shopper’s that’s open all night;
She needs hairspray to ensure that her hair is just right.
Toothpaste and Tylenol for the occasional headache;
It’s like she buys out the store – for goodness sake!

She finally goes home - weary and beat;
She has a quick bath and then rests her feet.
She’s been working for days for this yearly event;
Camp meeting is here – but her energy’s spent!

Now, I must clarify - none of my clothes are five sizes too small. However, all of them still fit and the plan really was for them to be too big. I also must clarify that my kids have never broken a mirror - again I was using poetic licence.

I really wanted to add in there somewhere that it's post-camp meeting tradition for some people to leave the suitcases unpacked for weeks - (maybe even months?) but it just didn't fit.

Anyway, I hope you all enjoy it. I'm away to camp next week so........to all a good night!