Holiday Spirit

A fireplace warms my toes that are wrapped in the
mismatched holiday socks you gave me. Iridescent
presents sit under the tree, eagerly waiting to be
tackled by impatient children.

We sing carols in clashing harmony
as we snag decorated cookies
from the kitchen table
before dinner.

The annual Christmas Eve Yankee Swap
takes place. Thank yous are exchanged
and as each festive gift is unwrapped,
your presence lingers.

The party misses your gag-gifts.
The laughs you bring to each room
warm the celebration unlike
any fireplace ever could.

Because three years ago tonight

you turned the key in the ignition after pouring
too much red wine into your hot chocolate