BACK THEN

The artificial tree was located in the corner. It had lights and smelled a bit because Snoopy had urinated on the tree. We sprayed it with an evergreen ambience. There were a number of lights on the tree and a few presents under it.

Dad represented the family by going to midnight mass. He was tired and slumped into bed. Our oldest was so excited that he stayed up much of the night. His younger brother knew something was happening, but sauntered off to his room.

Mom was all prepared and had the little house perfect for Christmas morning. Up early she got more packages from closets and placed them under the tree.

In the morning, our oldest raced out to the tree and wanted everyone, now at 6:30 AM to get up so that we could open our presents. Mom was ready and our youngest looked puzzled but excited. Where was Dad? He was fast asleep. The other three dragged him out of bed and he sat on the couch with his head hanging downward. Dad’s gifts were special. They were wrapped each in a grocery paper bag and duct tape was used to keep the gift closed.

He mumbled and the rest celebrated the special occasion. Mom made a special break feast and Dad went to bed talking to himself. He mumbled and was not sure of his own middle name.

By afternoon, everyone was playing with their toys and Mom was straightening the house. Dad looked at the television and all the days of waiting hoping for the Messiah came together with a pile of toys.

It was cold and snowy that winter. Maxwell the dog cuddled up next to Mom. Two football teams were playing and on the other channel, there was a parade.

It was now time for the long march through January and February. March offered a glimmer of hope.

Feliz Navidad, Happy Channakuk, and all the other holidays of the season came to pass. In the years past , sometimes the 4 of us were together and other times we were scattered to the winds.

JCS 2019