The white lights
on the Christmas tree
shine and twinkle like stars.

Turkey, ham,
cheesy potato casserole,
and oreo cookie cake fill our plates.

After the eating
and visiting with extended
family, we sit on the living room
carpet and begin to sing
carols for Santa.
I listen for the jingle
of bells ringing.

Santa takes his seat
on the rocking chair, swings
his bag over
his shoulder and drops
it gently on the floor.
One by one,
all of the children
are called to sit on his lap
and open a special gift.
After the kids finish, Santa calls
up Uncle Donny,
and then you—
Grandma—
the eldest and wisest of us all.
“O, Santa, it is you!
Thank you for coming
to celebrate Christmas
with my family,”
you wonder.

All too soon we must leave
this place full of Christmas spirit,
but you, Grandma,
I will keep in my heart
always.