The Bakers Of Milton Creek
The sun was rising over Milton Creek, heralding the start of a new day
Two new residents were due in town, on the noon train from Santa Fe
William (Bill) and Sara Baker, both renowned as skilled bakers by trade
There was talk that their breads and cakes were the best ones ever made.
The train ground to a halt and the guard unloaded trunks and cases
A wagon was at the station to meet them to take them to Hotel Aces
They'd stay as Lin's guests before having a place that they'd call home
But their first thought on arriving was 'never again will we roam.'
Lin welcomed them to Aces and showed them to her nicest room
She took real pride in cleanliness, often seen with duster and broom
She left them to unpack and said she'd prepare them some food
Bill and Sara, although tired from traveling, were in a happy mood.
Back from the range that afternoon, Mayor Tom and Sheriff Koplin
Had heard all about the new arrivals and thought that they'd drop in
The Texas couple had just finished eating and were eager to see
The empty restaurant next to Aces that would soon be their bakery.
Mayor Tom, Sheriff Koplin and Lin gave them a tour of next door
Bill excitedly said, "This is just what Sara and I have been looking for
All being put into place, we'll open in a week, when everything's right
We'll paint the outside maroon and the inside walls a bright white.
Mayor Tom said, "I'll get some volunteers in town to give you a hand
This town needs a bakery, and pretty soon it will look fine and grand."
Sheriff Koplin added, "I'm good at painting, and you can rely on me
Townsfolks around here are good natured and will help you for free."
Bill and Sara were eager to begin, both touched by such generosity
Sara said, "As soon as we open up, we're going to throw a big party
With pastries, cakes, and other sweet treats, served with beer or tea
Do you happen to know of anyone who can help in our new bakery?"
Lin added, "There's a singer at the Manx, Tania, who loves to bake
Whiskey Whoopie pies, birthday, and even a delicious wedding cake."
I'll be seeing her later tonight at the Manx and ask her to contact you
Because baking and singing are two of the things Tania loves to do."
Mayor Tom said, "Join me at the Manx. There are folks you should meet
I heard Jan is laying on a fancy party to welcome you; a meet and greet
The Manx crowd really livens up the place when the sun goes down,
And it will give you a chance to mingle with the fine folks of our town."
Bill smiled and said, "Well, Mayor, that sounds like a wonderful idea
And we're both looking forward to meeting up with the singer, Tania."
Sara added, "Yes, and from what you've told us, she knows how to bake
She'll certainly be a worthy addition to the bakery, make no mistake."
A couple of hours later, they all headed for a night at the Manx saloon
A lot had happened since they got off the train in Milton Creek at noon
Laughter and singing voices could be heard as their steps drew near
Bill whispered to Sara, "We made the right choice to come, Sara, dear."
As they entered the saloon, there was loud applauding and cheers
Bill and Sara were both quite shocked, and her eyes welled with tears
Bill composed himself saying, "This is an emotional start to our week
From Sara and I, a big Texas 'thank you' to you folks of Milton Creek."
Then Deb walked towards them with two glasses of sparkling champagne
Bill and Sara raised theirs to toast the town, and there was cheering again
Then everyone was quiet as Tania walked on stage and began to sing
When she finished, Bill shouted, "More champagne! More of everything!"
There was drinking and singing until two in the morning when Jan said,
"This was a great night of partying, but it's time we all get home to bed."
Sara and Bill left arm in arm, and as they walked with Lin back to Aces,
Bill said, "It's been an amazing day, and warm welcomes on happy faces."
Written on 23rd February 2024
Copyright ©
Tom Cunningham
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