‘Twas the night before

Only weeks before Christmas and all through the house
All the creatures were frantic, including the mouse.

What to do? What to see? The agenda was bare.
And pretty soon St. Nick - and your guests - would be there.

They thought and they thought till their thinkers were sore
They thought up ideas, then they thought up some more.

Willliamsburg is among the best-known places
Imagine the glow on their bright shining faces.

Drive through Richmond, look at lights that are tacky.
Planning a long tour? You'd best pack a snacky.

Stroll through the lighted gardens of Ginter
Year after year, it's a highlight of winter.

Go see a parade, chop down your own tree
Have a seat on Legendary Santa's knee.

Find your way to the James to view beaming boats
Living Nativity? They might just have goats.

Light a menorah, hear divine choirs sing
Faith is what makes all the bells ring.

Messiah, Nutcracker, The Grinch and his ire
Jack Frost roasting over an open fire.

But the season is more than entertainment
Or spending your 401(k)'s last red cent.

Bake cookies, a fruitcake, some other sweet treat
And visit a shut-in with something to eat.

Give to a food bank, drop bucks in a kettle
Save a stray critter, show holiday mettle.

Be somebody's angel, make a dream come true
Gifts for someone else will mean as much to you.

Write a Christmas card, compose a family letter
Let's be honest here: The cheesier the better.

Homemade ornaments make a tree look pretty
Festive act of kindness: Shop at Circuit City.

Go caroling, never mind the sound so foul
You will make someone smile (and maybe dogs howl).

Sip cider and eggnog, hot chocolate with care
Gather family around for a meal and share.

Watch a movie at home, step back from the strife
And never forget: it's a wonderful life.