10/14/2025
‘Twas the night after Turkey Dinner in Panna Maria,
The roasters were empty, the tables wiped down.
The pies had been eaten, the dressing all gone,
The leftovers packed and the lights left on.
The aprons hung neatly, the towels all clean,
Not a crumb on the counter—what a beautiful scene.
The hall now was quiet, the laughter all still,
But hearts were still warm with that fellowship thrill.
For neighbors and kinfolk had gathered once more,
To serve, share, and visit—like years before.
The cutters and carvers had scrubbed every board,
The washers and wipers all worked in accord.
From roasters to ladles, each pot had been dried,
And every last helper was beaming with pride.
Then soft through the building, so peaceful and clear,
It felt like dear Velma was smiling so near.
Her spirit was present, her laughter still known,
Guiding each hand as if it were her own.
Now the hall lights were dimmed, the Annual Dinner all complete,
The chairs all in order, the floors swept so neat.
And as stars twinkled bright in that calm country sky,
A peace settled in as the night drifted by.
Then someone said softly, while locking the door,
“We did it again—just like those before.
Velma would be proud, she’s watching up there—
We’ll do it again next year, with love and with prayer.”
So rest, faithful workers, your labor is done,
The dinner was blessed, the fellowship won.
And with hearts full of thanks, both happy and clear,
We’ll be ready again come this time next year.
See you all next, year. Thank you for coming!
PS - Miss you, Velma…and all those who have gone before us who helped make the Annual Panna Maria Homecoming Dinner the amazing event that it is. May the perpetual light shine upon you.
♥️
