I Love Christmas

They came in singing and the beagle jumped off the couch. Ran straight to the door, yipping with excitement. It was beginning. Are we the first? Melinda asked. The kids were laden with presents Glad they were, kid’s cousins would whisk them away soon enough. Got in fast hugs and kisses, and they began tearing off their scarves. Hats, coats, mittens, landing on the floor next to their boots. In an hour, the whole living room would be covered with happy people. My husband was hiding upstairs in the bathroom. Big brave grandpa! Saw the little one taking a sugar cookie; good for him. I applauded that. His mother wanted to help me. I am finished, I told her. Ready to sit. The kitchen smells were making me salivate, and I am not a big eater. The next family came in with three more kids. That’s when all hell broke loose. Grandpa shouted “Hey! Hey! Hey!” as they scrambled up the stairs past him. “Hi Grandpa!” Charlotte said. Giving him a grin that satisfied him the rest of the year. Christmas at our house, and they just kept coming. Relatives and friends, telling stories, laughing, joking, hugging. It is the most glorious day of the year for both of us. I love Christmas!