Holiday Memories

As Christmas bows are tied with care
And candy canes delight
When carols through the halls do sound,
And candles sparkle bright;

My memories of holidays
In times long past bring cheer.
And expectations lift my heart,
As Christmas comes each year.

When youth was my companion dear
And I from stress was free –
Awaiting reindeer and St. Nick
Would fill my heart with glee.

Each present I would hold with care
And guess the gift unseen,
Imagining the treasure held
Within the red and green.

But now that streaks of gray and white
Adorn my aging head
I’d gladly trade the presents for
My children near instead.

Preparing feasts for loved ones dear
And setting out each plate
We listen for their footsteps now
Within our garden gate.

We sit around a blazing fire
And talk of days gone by;
As smells beyond the kitchen waft
Of roast, potatoes, pie…

We tuck the little ones in bed,
Upon them blankets throw,
And decorate for Christmas ‘morn
As embers lose their glow.

And hope that in a child’s heart
Our legacy lives on.
And Christmas’ spirit lingers still
When all of us are gone.