CHRISTMAS PAST
If I could journey back in time
To Christmas of my past,
I’d gather up the happiness
And hold it very fast.
We didn’t have a lot back then,
But we were unaware
That others had more than us,
For we had much to share.
Each Christmas was a busy time
With many things to do,
And I look back in fondness,
Remembering just a few:
Making stars and paper chains
To compliment our tree,
Checking out our window panes
For frost etched tracery,
Hanging bread and suet balls
On branches that were bare,
Watching snowflakes coat the trees
As birds sought shelter there,
Running out,, all bundled up,
Enjoying winter’s gifts,
Snow-angels made by each of us,
And sliding down big drifts.
We’d all go in, after fun,
And have a special treat –
Hot cocoa near the old wood stove,
While warming hands and feet.
Beautiful carols filled the air,
Prompting us to sing.
There were gifts in colored tissue,
Tied with cotton string.
Mama’s words as she kissed us
And hugged us very tight,
“You’ve all been such good children,
Santa will come tonight.”
Then snuggling down under quilts,
Listening for Santa’s sleigh,
And drifting off in dream-filled sleep
‘Til early Christmas day.
Awaking to threadbare stockings,
Stirring children’s joy …
Filled with oranges, candy, and nuts,
And a small ten-cent toy.
Under the tree, for Sis and I,
Were dolls that Mama dressed.
Each piece of clothing sewn by hand,
Then each piece neatly pressed.
Big brother received a nice game
And strings for his guitar.
Little brother got marbles
And a cast iron car.
We could ask for no improvement
Of such heart-warming joy,
For we were more than satisfied
With candy and a toy.
If I could paint such memories
To help make them last,
I’d view them with a little smile
Each time that I walked past.
12/18/89 Phyllis DeWitt-VanVleck
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