One of the joys of the Christmas season is a tree twinkling with lights. The trimming of the tree is a wonderful tradition. When the fragrant fir took a prominent place in the living room you knew Christmas was just around the corner. When I was young decorating the tree was an exciting event. Stringing the lights and placing the ornaments while eating popcorn and drinking hot-spiced cider added to the party atmosphere. The angel resting atop the tree was the final touch. The room quieted as the house lights were turned off. Then it happened. The tree lit up the living room in its multi-colored glory. Everyone cheered. Santa was coming.
December is a great month when you’re young. Days when folks went caroling and hot cocoa with marshmallows warmed you up after an afternoon spent playing in the snow. Wrapped presents begin to appear beneath the tree. I recall shaking the packages and trying to peek beneath the bright paper. I was sure each one held a treasure, a wonderful toy that I’d being wanting since Easter. My imagination wouldn’t consider socks or pajamas.
As December days gave way to darkness the Christmas lights would come to life, turning my house and the neighborhood into a magical place ready for Santa’s arrival.
I no longer wait for Santa, but I still love Christmas trees. My house is too small to put one in the living room so I put mine in the backyard. I string it with lights and decorate it with colorful bulbs. I live in California where the temperature is mild, so I can sit outside in the evening, enjoy a glass of wine, and experience the magic of Christmas.
MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS
B.J McCall
About the Author: B.J. McCall lives in sunny California. When she needs a break from writing, BJ likes to take a long walk. Four miles later, she’s ready to get back to work.
BJ is multi-published in print and ebooks. She writes paranormal and sci-fi stories on a regular basis for Changeling Press. She’s also published with eRed Sage and Cobblestone Press. 2012 marks a decade of writing for Ellora’s Cave. Her books are available at Amazon, B&N, and AllRomanceEbooks.
WEBSITE www.bjmccall.com