’Twas just days before Christmas and while  hard at work, several visions of unfinished chores stole my smirk.

Most presents were wrapped — very prettily, too, but still I had writing and baking to do.

The stockings were hung and the lights  filled the air, but not one single goodie or treat was prepared.

Christmas spirit was lacking and for this I was sad, ’til I spent a few hours with
a great Navy band.

With music so cheery and so full of life, it made me forget all the work and the strife.

Working on stories like VP-40 at school made me think this whole season could really be cool.

With people like those in the Ladies Auxiliary, it’s plain folks on Whidbey understand things quite clearly.

It’s not about presents or chores left undone. It’s about family and caring and giving and fun.

So let me just say before it’s too late, Merry Christmas to all — hope  your holiday’s great!

– Kathy Reed, editor