Twas two days before Christmas

This is running in my column today and I wanted to share...


‘Twas two days before Christmas and all through the house,

Panic was ensuing, even down to the mouse.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

With so much do, it hardly seemed fair!

The children were staying up late to be ready

Wishing for Christmas eve to get here already.

And I in my warm robe and Daddy in his

Lay stressed in our bed thinking of that and of this.

When out on the deck there arose such a clatter,

We both thought “Darn Cats,” but still checked on the matter.

And what to our sleep deprived eyes should appear?

But 20 hill country elves, loaded with gear!

Tinsel and tape, ribbons and bows,

Hot cocoa, and cider, and tacos to go.

“We’re here to lighten your load just a bit

before the big guy gets here, you know, St. Nick?”

Stunned, we let them in and they set right to work,

Adding décor to the gifts, bringing merriment and mirth.

They fixed the broken string of lights on the tree,

They multiplied our chocolate chip cookie count by three.

One found a dust pan, another a broom,

And they set about straightening every room.

Soon we were helping and laughing and found,

The spirit of the season had us dancing around.

We joked about the silly things that happened this year,

And the sad things, well, about those we shed a small tear.

We toasted the last of the marshmallows and then,

The hill country elves packed up their tools once again.

They left behind a sparkle with every footstep,

Away in the darkness of night did they schlep.

And then, out of nowhere the alarm rang loud!

We woke with a start, wondering aloud...

Was it just a dream? Was there still so much to do?

We came down the stairs, and yes, the place was a zoo.

And yet the room seemed brighter as we gazed about,

And we laughed, realizing without a doubt,

The Spirit of the season had filled our home with good cheer.

Thanks little elves.

We’ll take it from here.

Merry Christmas from ours to yours!