A bit of a do

It’s party time again. Moving from Cheshire to Yorkshire I did notice the difference.

A bit of a do

For my Cheshire celebrations, I held a small soiree
Sent out invitations, stating time and day
Consulting with my guest list, I made a heartfelt plea
Pray do not ignore me, I expect r.s.v.p

At a pre allotted date I visited a deli
Acquired a lot of fancy bits, all trapped in aspic jelly.
A surfeit of smoked salmon, various canapés
Alongside ribbon sandwiches, all cut in many ways

Dessert was always fresh fruit as most were on a diet
Topped with champagne sorbet, as some would like to try it
Arranged the crystal glasses alongside the best china
Starched my linen napkins, no one could do it finer

Bubbly corks would be popping as you entered my front door
Guests air kissed one another, so no one’s lips were sore.
They stood around in twos or threes, spoke of this and that
Of Herbert’s separation, or Chloe’s nasty cat

Coats would be quickly donned as the clock was chiming ten
You shook their hand politely, said ‘hope you’ll come again

But when I moved to Yorkshire, there was a massive change
No reason needed for a party, and nowt to prearrange
No requirement for r.s.v.p., your answered with a wink
Tho’ maybe a reminder to buy enough to drink

The crystal and the china, just pack it all away
We don’t want any breakages, or that could spoil the day
Serviettes, don’t bother, once I twirled ’em into roses
What did they use ’em for, ablowin’ of their noses

Pop down to Toddy market, acquire some big pork pies
Don’t bother with the slicing up, they handle ’em that size
Make some corned beef butties, but don’t cut off the crust
If you give ’em dainty fingers, they look on in disgust

As for providing ‘afters’ or pudding if you will
A bowl of sherry trifle will always fit the bill
Why pester folk with talking, when you can sing a song
Anyone can learn the words…… they’re repetitive and long

If you cannot hold a tune or melody you lack
Just shout out all the choruses, don’t let it hold you back.
They arrive just after seven, depart just after two
Tho’ tipsy by the end of it, you have a reet good do

Glenys Halliday