WHAT I LIKE ABOUT CHRISTMAS

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT CHRISTMAS

I like all the tinsel

and tinkling bells,

the carols, the candles

and sweet cooking smells.

The tree with it's star

and flashing bright lights,

Carols by Candlelight

on warm summer nights.

Children bright eyed

who really can't sleep,

being sent back to bed

and told not to peep.

Christmas cards in my mail box

from friends I have made,

Reminding me of visits

and places I've stayed.

My family around me ~

A table fully spread.

That bitter sweet tiredness

When I crawl into bed.

The lights on my roof

and the wreath on my door,

Some sad reminder of loved ones

Who are with us no more.

Candy canes and the bustle

of a busy shopping mall

And so this is Christmas

and I love it all.

©   Linda J. Vaughan

THAT TIME OF THE YEAR

THAT TIME OF THE YEAR

It’s that time of the year once more

When we hear tinkling bells,

When traders are filling shelves

And hoping that everything sells.

We are on the “countdown” to Christmas

Tinsel is sparkling and bells are ringing

Letters to Santa, Christmas cards

And choirs are carol singing.

It seems to start much earlier

Than it ever did before.

Children are counting the “sleeps”

And School has become a bore.

Recipe books are being checked

Arrangements made and changed.

Everyone is so busy

Things have to be rearranged.

Yet there is still the magic,

The eyes that sparkle and gleam.

The hope and anticipation

A time “perchance to dream”

A time to answer questions ~

“Can reindeer really fly?”

“Does Santa really make a list?”

“Does Rudolph’s nose light the sky?”

Rustling paper and surprises,

Candles, glitter and trees.

Ribbons and sequins and shortbread

What better memories than these?

So before this Christmas Season

Really gets into full swing

I wish you peace and happiness

And all the joy that Christmas brings.

© Linda J. Vaughan

November 30th. 2004