Saturday, December 26, 2015

The Day After Christmas

by Jane Clark Whitaker (with apology to Clement Clarke Moore)

Tis the day after Christmas, and all through the house
Not a creature is stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings hung back by the chimney with care,
Emptied of goodies that had been placed there.

The children gone home to sleep in their beds,
While memories of candies now dance in their heads.
And I in my pj's with cat in my lap,
Have just settled just settled down for an afternoon nap.

Remembering yesterday's clutter and clatter,
I had to wonder, did it all really matter.
The paper in tatters and gleeful shouts,
As ribbons and bows were scattered about.


The voices of children both old and young,
Joined in the laughter of games and fun.
And to top it all off, what then did appear,
But a feast fit for Christmas for family to share.


The gifts were all given with hearts full of love
And the day had a luster that came from above.
The quiet is lovely, I'm glad that it's come
But I miss the chaos of my family at home.

I'm thinking of you who have traveled my way
Sharing the journey for part of a day.
Old friends from childhood, cousins and kin,
New friends and loved ones I'll see soon again.

To friends and family, nearby and far way
"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-day"
May the love of the season stay in your heart
And the New Year have a prosperous start.