PATCHWORK CHRISTMAS

©Carol Ann Erhardt, November 2002

Eyes round with wonder
for beautiful lights
twinkling through garland
at far away heights.

Fat chubby fingers
reach out with glee
for brightly wrapped presents
piled high 'neath the tree.

Shaking the package
Mom's not around
trying to guess
at the rattling sound.

Leaving the cookies
for Santa to eat
keeping a vigil
but falling asleep.

Being embarrassed
to say "I believe"
making snow angels
with thick woolen sleeves.

Inviting a new beau
to join in the fun
singing the carols
sure he is the one.

A glittering stone
in a package so small
saying "I love you"
and feeling so tall.

Holding the baby
gurgling with glee
reaching for ornaments
high on the tree.

Battling the crowds
through store after store
and finding the presents
they asked Santa for.

Filling the stockings
 trimming the tree
cooking the dinner
 smiling with glee.

A patchwork of memories
quilting my mind
with stitches of love
past Christmases bind.