Clement Clarke Moore wouldn’t know how popular his 1823 poem would be read 198 years later. Little clues in the original poem like “tore open the shutters and threw up the sash” and going to bed in a “kerchief and a cap” tell us it was way back in history. I thought I would update the poem for 2021 as a merry Christmas card for all of you who read the Chronicle:

‘Twas the day before Christmas, and all through the house

The parents were scurrying like a caffeinated mouse

The last-minute gifts were being wrapped with care

In hopes that everything was bought and ready before Christmas morning got there

All the children were nestled on the couch with smartphones in hand

While visions of opening presents danced in their heads

In her comfy well-worn sweat pants and I in my jeans

Mama had just decided to assemble a dollhouse for sweet baby girl, Justine

When out in the garage, there arose such a clatter

I scrambled to the door to see what was the matter

Around the corner, the cat flew like a flash

Followed by the dog, who leaped up and destroyed the tool cabinet in a huge crash.

The shop light reflected the tools sparkling on the floor

As both animals dashed out the door

Mama’s exasperated countenance appeared at the door

I surveyed the whole matter.

Faster than lightning, she flew into the house, got her purse and keys, and didn’t care about the bank account!

To the store, to the mall, to any place at all

A dollhouse assembled was the goal before nightfall

She returned with a big box, a dollhouse assembled and neat

And sharply said, don’t check the credit card or the bank account next week

Ribbons, paper, and tape covered the floor

As all presents were wrapped and stacked nicely on the floor.

The scent of peppermint hot chocolate filled the house

And my wife and I collapsed on the couch.

With kids snuggled in their beds, and an open bottle of wine in hand

We wish a Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night and in hopes for all that there is peace in the land!