Getting ready for Santa

Mum was busy in the kitchen, Dad was sorting out the garden, even Joe was possibly sorting out his toys.  Mary didn’t understand what all the fuss was about.

“Mary can you help me please?” asked Mum.

Mary wandered through to the kitchen, “how can I help?” asked an intrigued Mary.

Could you help me with the dishes, then we have a much more interesting task afterwards when Dad finishes what he needs to do.

Mary stood on her wee stool, she was almost tall enough but still that bit too short to reach the dishes or the cupboard but not for too much longer.

The dishes were done and put away mum wiped down all of the surfaces, just as dad burst through the door with a tree.

“Dad what are you doing?” blurted Mary.

“Well I thought we could dress it up all pretty and shiny for Christmas,” stated Dad.

“Well we better get started,” winked Mum looking at Dad.

Dad got the tree steady in its bucket so it wouldn’t move or fall, now the fun begins.

Dad was the tallest so he always put the lights on. 

Everyone go to hang up the shiny decorations.  Some sparkled, some Mary and Joe had made, others were presents from aunties and cousins.  

Each were given their own branch, once all the branches were filled, it was Joe’s turn  to put the star on the top of the tree this year , with a little help from dad.

They all stood back to get a better look at their work.

“Wow I think its the best one yet,” smiled Mum.

“Agreed” chimed Mary and Dad.

“But I think we might be missing something.” Whispered a confused Mum.  “Oh yes, we need to put out treats for the reindeer and Santa. What do you think they would like to keep them fueled for the long night of work?”  

“I think the reindeer would like some carrots and parsnips, definitely carrots,” advised Mary.

“Why carrots?” asked Dad.

“Granny always says that carrots help you see in the dark and we don’t want Santa getting lost, do we.” advised Mary.

“No we couldn’t have that, but what are we going to give Santa?” mused Dad.

“I think Santa  would like some juice and an apple” nodded Mary.

“Not a glass of milk and some cookies or a mince pie Mary? Questioned Dad.

“No I think Santa will be quite bored of all the chocolate, cookies and mince pies from everyone else, I think we could try something lighter and Mum says apples are really good for keeping you awake, I think Santa might quite like the change."

“That sounds like a really good idea Mary, you might get a surprise gift for your quick thinking,” smiled Dad. 

“Oh, I think we forgot, “ yelled Dad as he rushed into the kitchen, “These,” he hollered as He took through a tray of mince pies and juice, “These are for us to enjoy.  Now Christmas can really begin.”

©18.12.2016 joannehepburn