Christmas Preparations

Christmas Preparations Then and Now

I used to get a real tree,

make decorations

and give some to shut-ins

when we caroled.  

I used to make presents,

wrap them in paper and bows

and send off packages

and hand written cards

to everyone in the family.

I used to prepare for and attend

parties, pageants and programs.

I used to bake a big batch

of monster cookies

and pass out plates

of them to friends.

I used to clean the house,

cook a huge turkey dinner

and invite people over.

Now, I have an artificial tree

and use the decorations we have.

Now, I stay home for the most part,

buy gift cards or a few presents

and poke them into Christmas bags.

Now, I type a Christmas letter

and email the ones I can.

Now, I only clean the house enough

to keep the health department away.

Now, for Christmas dinner,

I slow cook a turkey breast

and used canned,

frozen and instant

everything else

just for the immediate family.

Now, I keep it simple

so I can enjoy Christmas

instead of wearing myself out

and wishing it was over.