Twas a month before Christmas and all through Bremerton

presents were purchased, wrapped and piled as high as the sun;

These gifts were then stuffed into brown boxes with care

in hopes that the UPS man soon would be there;

Coming and going these delights were shipped and received

though online retailers whose promises of shipping guarantees aren’t always believed;

Because terrible storms, snow, trucking and rail delays

cause as much logistical angst as a pat down via the TSA;

Remember that retailers will make delivery promises to get your money in hand,

but have little control over where and when that package may land;

So don’t take a chance by waiting to ship your precious gifts of love this year;

Get them out the door now; by golly, give them a shove if they are so dear;

Don’t wait for 2nd day air; don’t wait for next day guaranteed.

Even 12- hour work days by the Santa’s in Brown, don’t even begin to meet the seasonal need;

Cut Santa’s helpers some slack and give them some room as they make their deliveries

because they are working very hard to hand out all the gifts and prevent Christmas miseries;

Remember to give them a wave and a smile as they drive that big brown truck out of sight.

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good shipping night.