Horn Of Plenty

A slight mist rises into the cool, crisp air

As the morning frost sublimes in the sunlight

The pungent aroma of many a fireplace

Greets the strengthening grip of Jack Frost’s bite

Thankful for the beautiful holiday that now begins

I shiver as I enter my warm, cozy home

For a feast waits to be made in the hours ahead

To enjoy with family members soon to come

The scents of pumpkin spice mingle with apple cider

The laughter of my children mingles with that of my wife

A breakfast of eggs and pastries and hot cocoa

Sparkling eyes and big smiles and love are my life

The kitchen ramps up to a fever pitch

A blizzard of turkey, stuffing, veggies and more

Football and parades clash with Holiday music

Sisters, brothers, nieces, and nephews knock on the door

The hugs and the tears and the happiness well met

After days or months or years away

“So big!” “You look great!” “The new house is wonderful!”

The children don their coats to go out and play

Finger foods, coffee, hot tea, and beer

Walks down Memory Lane and talk of plans ahead

The kitchen window cracked to release the heat

The time approaches for the family to break bread

The turkey is carved, and the plates piled high

Heads are bowed for grace, each gives their thanks in turn

My grin is permanent as the dinner is praised

This is the love of family that cannot be learned

Our bellies are full, and the dishes are clean

In the family room we gather in joyous anticipation

We listen to the tale of Santa and his sleigh

And look forward to Christmas Vacation

The untrimmed tree stands at the ready

The lights, the ornaments, the garland, and the star

The vision of gifts and snow on the ground

Another family gathering that nothing can mar

There’s so much that we have in the family holiday

So much that we often don’t see

For we let life’s everyday troubles get in the way

Of our own Horn of Plenty