Christmas Tree Night Lights

My eyes blink open as my senses awaken. The muted glow of Christmas tree light illumines the chubby angel-face of the small form lying beside me. She is still, enveloped in peaceful slumber. Lifting myself to my elbow I gaze beyond the blanketed mound to view two young boys, also wrapped in the soft glow of multi-colored light. Snuggling down once more inside my sleeping bag, I listen to the quiet rythmic breathing which belongs to those who rest.

My eyes peek once again at the blonde head of the little girl next to me, hand tucked under her cheek, framed with that special glow, content and warm; I hope to save the memory for a future day, not assuming such recollective powers, having understood that they, too, are a gift from God not to be taken for granted.

You see, last night, Papa and Nana hosted a sleepover under the Christmas tree with two grandchildren and our youngest son. We shared a meal of hot dogs and tater tots (high rating for nutrition.) A viewing of The Adventure of Pinocchio while enjoying cookies and milk in the candlelit family room soon followed (the movie is okay, not great.) PJ's were next, then Christmas books were read while we cuddled on our makeshift beds. Nothing elaborate - just an evening together under the tree. That seemed special enough. I know I had been excited all day long about the arrival of two small children and an evening spent together.

Even if I don't remember it someday, I'm pretty sure they will.