Twas’ the day after Christmas, and all through the scene, not a creature was stirring, not even a teen. Wrapping paper strewn all over the floor in hopes that ma would not walk through the door.
The midnight snack was left out overnight, sticky and spilled, ma was not thrilled. Pa in his work clothes and I in my bathrobe, preparing the inquisition, we set out on our mission.
When out on the porch, there arose such a clatter, I ran to ask the Fed Ex man, what was the matter. Away to the truck, he shot in a flash; and returned with a gift that should’ve been cash.
The moon on the window, so shiny and clean, brought darkness and beauty to the once snowy scene. When what to my wondering eyes should appear, but a rumpled, moody teenager and all of her gear.
With a friend in the car, so noisy and late, I knew in a moment it must be her date. More annoying than ever, his horn blew loud, while he whistled and shouted and asked if she was allowed.
It’s family time at Christmas, you’re welcome to come in, but Sophia is staying here with her kin. A grumpy expression from Sophia herself, all frumpled and tired, showed ma what was desired.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard in the street, the sound of Ms. grumpy getting a tweet. As I drew in my hand to turn around, her date left without making a sound.
Back to sulking in the personal solitude of her room, it’s hard to believe she peacefully came out of my womb. The music descending the stairs, like a bomb, those airpods would’ve brought our party some calm.
I spoke not a word, but went straight to my work, by filling those plates then turned with a jerk. Laying a finger aside of my cheek, while yelling upstairs, as if the teen cares.
Sophia sprang to her seat, to her family gave a nod, and her plate was empty after the cod. She took my hand, smiled and babbled on, no sign of Ms. Grumpy, she must’ve been gone.
Christmas is over, pockets empty bellies full, and no more gift-buying bull. Family connections are what it’s about, even when Ms. Grumpy is here, let’s gather with those our hearts hold dear.