'twas the day before Christmas, 
and lo! i had sworn
to avoid any shopping
'til next Monday morn.

just before dawn, when I'd wake on a work day
the computer room gave a long high-pitched squeal
the battery backup had chosen this day
to decide that with life it could no longer deal

I handled the moment 
 with no hint of dread.
I pushed the "off" switch
 and went back to bed.

when two hours later I did awaken
I knew I was destined to visit a store.
my stay-home plans must be forsaken
for at least a half-hour, or perhaps a bit more

so with my coffee I drove to the strip-mall
fearing extremes of idiot parking
but to my relief it was no scare at all
like the sound in the night of no dog barking

so it was an hour later (if not a bit less)
that the server "up" status I did achieve
and project completion I deigned to bless
so now we can enjoy our quiet Christmas Eve.