The Night Before Christmas

“Using the familiar opening line as a lead I penned this modern version to describe the Christmas preparations. Written especially for a Relief Society Christmas party, it reflects the attitude I have had about Christmas for a long time. ”
 
‘Tis the night before Christmas and all thru the house
Not a creature is stirring, not even my spouse!
    I’m busily sewing some last minute things.
    Oh! The tree angel fell and has broken her wings!
I’ll fix it real quick and with glue gun in hand,
I may as well fix up that Christmas tree stand.
    There were so many parties and dinners and such,
    I’ve been racing for weeks and it’s really too much!
The stockings are filled, that’s one big job done.
I’m dead on my feet but we’re going to have fun.
    The sewing, the baking, the shopping and all.
    Have I missed anything – Oh, there’s stillSuzies doll!
It’s on the top shelf, – I’ll wrap it real quick!
One more Christmas like this and I’m going to be sick!
    The rushing, the planning, the money we’ve spent!
    And the rich food I’ve eaten, I’ll have to repent!
Each year it’s like this and each year I declare-
Never again, it’s not fair, it’s not fair!
    All the glitter and glitz so the kids will be dazzled
    Just leaves me wrung out and totally frazzled!
Now never, not ever will I do this again.
I’m going to get smart and start acting sane!
    The Christmas we’ll have won’t be bought at the store,
    No, the Christmas we’ll have will be much, much more!
I can see it all now – so calm and serene.
With the children all helping – not greedy and mean!
    We’ll just keep it simple, not get worn out.
    With good will to all men – now that’s what it’s about.
Yes, next year, next year that’s how it will be.
Yes next year ….. or this year, it’s all up to me!