Christmas Memories
"Joy to the World,"
rang out as I sleepily slid downstairs
while Aunt Esther was finishing
her famed salmon croquettes
and fluffy scrambled eggs
We opened our gifts
to many surprises that year
as we were entertained by poetic CDs
from Walt Whitman and Elizabeth Bishop
to Gwendolyn Brooks and Langston Hughes
Christmas dinner at Vonnie's
with aunts, cousins
and friends was prefaced
with thanks for the bountiful feast
and gathering of loved ones
Our day was interrupted
when we drove our son to the train station
but snow and sleet marred our view
Poorly plowed roads
and momentarily frozen wipers
made our trip more treacherous
After a safer drive from the station
with clearer roads and visibility,
we stripped off furs and boots,
warmed ourselves by a cracking fire,
drinking hot cider, and enjoying
soulfully sung carols
wafting through the frost-fettered air
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