Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: First (as in original) (01/10/05)
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TITLE: Memories | Previous Challenge Entry
By Daniel Tichota
01/12/05 -
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Having only been married for four months, this Christmas proved to be the season of new beginnings. Our financial income was tighter than we had expected, and the first of many Christmases together looked bleak in all manners. The Christmas tree was bought at a discounted price, but probably only due to its size. A replica in many ways of the Charlie Brown tree decorated with seasonal felt cut outs stood in the corner of our apartment, with a backdrop of on-sale Christmas stockings we wrote our own names on. Presents were stacked in the corner around the tree, but easily could have been overlooked for the small number that existed.
The crackling of the fire brings me back from the relived images playing in my mind. Another log placed on the fire, another sip of cocoa, and I turn the page. The fire burns on as my memories travel back once again.
Displayed in the pictures now before me are the images of Christmas Eve. My wife stands in the kitchen, posed with a hopeful grin, as she displays her first pumpkin pie. Bundled up in sweats she stands, as one by one the following pictures tell the story. The night of firsts continues as I gaze upon a photo of my first swig on eggnog, edged on only by my wife. The facial contortions tell the whole story. Each wrinkle and wince leaves nothing to guess; this is not my favorite drink. We continued our dessert and shared our stories of presents past. The Easy Back oven, the building blocks, and the endless mound of clothes from grandma all told the story of who we would grow up to be. Ending the evening with another bite, as together we sit watching the TV Christmas special.
Even now as I recollect in my chair, the faint sound of carolers is heard outside. The snow continues to drift downward, and the morning should show signs of little feet, sledding, and snowmen. One by one, the minutes tick down, closer and closer to Santa’s big moment. As is his way, the believing will not be disappointed.
But turning the album’s page once again, the conclusion of the holiday is portrayed. There was no snow on the ground, but rather a light winter frost. We scurried out from the bedroom and huddled by the tree, passing gifts to each other with pride. Bows flinging to the side, the snap of tape and ripping of paper sounding in a panicked rush. The wide eyes, festive dancing, and loving hugs all illustrated that it is the thought that counts above all else this holiday season. The stack of presents, as small as it was, has now been reduced to a collection of cherished memories and smiles. Although the monumental gifts were never received that year, we both knew the love that was shared that first of many Christmas’s together was a gift in itself.
The grandfather clock chimes its 9 p.m. toll, and I come back to the present. In just hours the house will be filled with the noise of Christmas again. Presents will be stacked in piles before each child and Christmas music will fill our ears. The scent of peppermint candy canes, ham and all the fixings will fill the air. Our two children, now with families themselves, will visit with their children. The hugs and kisses as we greet each one is really a gift in itself. Were I to sit on Santa’s lap and whisper in his ear, the only thing I could wish for has already come. I am grateful for this family, for my dearest friends and loved ones who today will share with me another memory.
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