( Dedicated to the La Piazza Family who ran the Café in Halfway for many years)


The Little Duchess by Pete McKenna

As a child she made me welcome, with all her regal charm
My wildest dreams were all fulfilled within her outstretched arms
She watched me grow, she saw me cry, she let me sit and stay
To spend some time with my young friends and pass the time away

But as I grew, I grew away from her and all her charms
And new horizons beckoned me and other loving arms
I took a wife and grew some more and children brought us joy
In dreams I'd venture through her door, again a little boy

My mind was set, I would return once more to look and see
That regal charm, the warm smile, would she remember me?
I took my wife and son along, my daughters they came too
The Little duchess was still there, my dreams had all come true

She welcomed us as long lost friends, in her old Italian way
The childrens' eyes lit up with joy as mine had in my day
To see them smile and comprehend as I in years gone by
Reminds me wonders never cease when seen through children's eyes

But now she's gone and is no more, so many tears were shed
By those who ventured through her doors and can't believe she's dead
Although she's gone she still remains in hearts and minds and dreams
The Little Duchess, bless her soul perhaps is now a Queen.