Oh, to be a kid again!

  Ever since I was a child, I have loved Christmas and all of its trappings. Back then I loved the hustle and bustle, the whispered secrets of gifts, the sights, smells and even the sounds of the holiday.  Not much has changed from that standpoint.  I still feel that twinge of inner child trying to sneak out at this time of year.  Things have changed in the world around me but deep inside, I want to be a kid again and celebrate like long ago.  

  Tonight, I sit here in the dark.  Only the decorations shimmer with their twinkling lights.  It is pouring rain outside with a slight bit of wind.  The temperature is just cold enough to need the added warmth from the old cast-iron stove.  All is quiet.  Once again, it is going to be a quiet Christmas for me.  There will be no stockings to fill nor will there be the happy squeals from little ones as they see what Santa left.  The kids are all grown and have lives of their own.  

  Still, that little spark of anticipation flickers inside me.  It is Christmastime.  It is a happy time.  All is well with the Bayou.