THE DOWNSIDE UP

Miscellaneous writings which include humor, politics, and poetry. (Copyright protected.)

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Ho, Ho, Ho! And 2008 Is On The Way

Many fond traditions surface for Christmas. Decorations trigger almost forgotten sweet memories. Familiar aroma from the kitchen guarantee we are in the right place at the right time. The sound of Christmas carols cause humming. Candles flicker as darkness falls.

A favorite pastime is to load the kids in the van then drive around the neighborhood checking out lights blinking and stars twinkling. Of course, there is always family interaction.

"Make him move his head, daaaad. I can't see," Sally complains. "Mama, she can too. She is just being a problem to get more attention," moans Junior. "Looky! Looky!" Ann shrieks in her tiny toddler voice as she points her finger toward a roof top reindeer and sleigh.

Finally, it is time to return home for the long awaited ritual of opening packages. "I made you a bird, mama, with blue feathers and a yellow head. Open the box and look at it!" "Daddy, why did you buy me a tent? Now I'm gonna have two 'cause Santa said he'd get me one."

Wide-eyed and reluctant the children go off to bed a little early hoping to dream about the sugar plum fairy and all the toys that will be under the tree the next morning.

There is long silence followed by a rustling noise. "Junior you better get back to bed if you want Santa to stop by," dad chuckles. There is instantly a sound of small feet scampering down the hall.

After the children are securely in bed Mom and Dad make a final review of Santa letters.
Santa, my Man!
What say -- a good fishing pole this year?
Dad
My Dearest, Darling Mr. Claus,
I was as good this year as I have been since the day I was born. The trials and tribulations are forever a challenge. Nevertheless, I keep on. As you'll recall, last year you missed the earrings on my list. Not that I minded a bit, but just wanted to bring it to your attention. I'd like a royal blue SUV this year. Greetings to Mrs. Claus.
Mom
P.S. Please don't leave the cookie crumbs on the table; they bring out the ants. Also, would you mind rinsing the glass before you put it in the sink?
Dear Santa,
You being a really kool guy, you know jolly and all that, could you drop off a red bike with a white racing stripe to 1004 Trulane? It would be really kool if you would. I'd tell my friends. God, too.
Junior
Dear Santa Claus, Sir,
I want a Barbie doll, soccer ball, ballet shoes, back pack, I-pod, DVD player and Nintendo, okay? Your very best friend forever and ever and ever.
Sally
Hello,
My name is Ann. Would you bring me a Raggedy Ann dolly?
Thank you,
Baby Ann
Hey, Santa Dude!
Remember me? I'm the cuddly creature that is easily overlooked. I've been sleeping on the same thread worn rug in the same corner of the same cold room since I was just a wee pup. Dude, I'm giving you fair warning. If you step on me again this year, you can say adiós amigo to your ankle.
Rover
Dear Santa, purr,
I'm out of catnip and please continue to step on Rover.
Morris
A trip to visit Santa is always a great way to begin or end the Christmas Holiday. Santa is a bridge to wondrous joy. In his traditional garb he greets everyone with a warm welcome and then bids them farewell with the assurance that next year will be the best yet.

The first day of a brand spanking new year brings a feeling of power, prestige, and energy. The awe is like an intoxicant and encourages new beginnings. In 2008, we can reach for the sky (again)! Do the impossible (at least start).

Here are some suggestions along with a first step guide.

Resolution 1 -- Walk a marathon.
Step One: get out of your easy chair.

Resolution 2 -- Increase knowledge.
Step One: stop talking.

Resolution 3 -- Tackle big problem.
Step One: one bite at a time.

Resolution 4 -- Get more money.
Step One: locate spouse's stash.

Resolution 5 -- Loose weight.
Step One: Dial 1-liposucphat.

Resolution 6 -- Exercise.
Step One: turn off television.

Resolution 7 -- Spend more time with family.
Step One: memorize home address.

Resolution 8 -- Be nicer.
Step One: leave .38 at home.

Resolution 9 -- Talk with mother-in-law.
Step One: buy a carrier pigeon.

Resolution 10-- Scratch this list; start over.
Step One: find white out.

© Coninc., TheDownsideUp.Com 2007