A CHRISTMAS EVE POEM by Sarah Raplee

‘Twas the night before Christmas, and over at Grandma’s

All the creatures were stirring on two legs and four paws.

Grandma in her tee shirt and Gramps in his sweats

Wrapped presents for family, friends and for pets.

When out in the drive there arose such a clatter

They flung open the door to see what was the matter.

And what to their wondering eyes should appear

But a smiling young friend dressed in cold weather gear.

His eyes, how they twinkled! His smile was so merry!

“I have lights for the kids.” Thank goodness for Harry!

When the grandkids arrived an hour later that night

They were greeted by colorful LED lights.

Smells of ham, sweet potatoes, cookies and pies

Made their mouths water and widened their eyes.

While the relatives gathered to eat what they’d fixed

Three dogs were happily gnawing treat sticks.

When bellies were full and the cleanup was done,

“Let the games begin!” Gramps told everyone.

Ping-pong in the basement, Go Fish on the porch,

Cataan on one table, on the other was…Zorch?

There was laughter and chatting long into the night.

Too soon it was time for the kids to take flight.

But they heard them exclaim ere they drove out of sight,

“Santa’s coming! Happy Christmas! And to all, a good night!”

Merry Christmas! ~Sarah Raplee