Count Down to Christmas

Chapter 11.

Christmas only comes once a year, but as I’ve advocated in the past, I am confident we would all be happier people if we celebrated throughout the year.

Lest anyone miss out on the opportunity to thoroughly enjoy this holiday, my apartment now has garland wrapped around the banister, stockings hung from the tv, and a 2-foot tree standing crookedly but ever so tall.  This is Christmas college style.  As part of Fall Break, I decorated Christmas cookies (though the red icing was more pink), sipped apple cider, and watched my favorite movie of all time:  Elf.  Of course, I did all of this wearing my Santa hat.  Oh, you mustn’t forget the Christmas music.

Just hear those sleigh bells jingling
Ring-ting-tingling too
Come on it’s lovely weather
For a sleigh ride together with you

Whether or not a sleigh ride is feasible or if I’m actually still wearing shorts is a non-issue.  Christmas is warming.   It’s a warming of the heart, and if Texans are still skeptical about more heat, I’m sure Missourians will cherish the warmth.

One thing I miss right now is my precious little brother Robert.  Call him Mr. Festive.  He decorates our house with such spirit that even if the icicle lighting on the mantle makes your eyes hurt or if the outdoor lighted deer loses its head, you don’t dare change a thing.  His heart is evident, his joy radiant, and it’s contagious.

We need more Roberts.

I cannot wait for him to pull the boxes from the attic and watch my mom encourage what she knows she’s going to have to put away in January.  He’ll be too depressed to help.  Until then, he’ll be all smiles.

• 

Also check out: