Dusk was just around the corner yesterday afternoon when Christmas arrived on our south porch! At first we heard the gate open and then a bit of foot scuffling and then… sleigh bells! The carolers had arrived and for the next quarter hour or so we were wreathed in smiles and immersed in songs and good tidings! It was even cold enough to feel like Christmas — only the snow was missing. But it was the sound of sleigh bells that caused my heart to soar. I’ve never ridden in a sleigh or even seen or heard one except in films. Yet the sound is at once nostalgic and full of promise and says “Christmas” like no other!
There were seven singers, each bundled up in full caroling regalia — warm coats and scarves, mittens and stocking caps (some even borrowed from Santa’s hat rack!) I was so entranced that I can’t even tell you which carols they sang — maybe “Oh Come All Ye Faithful” and “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Winter Wonderland”? I do know that they left (all too soon!) singing “We Wish You A Merry Christmas” and then they were off to other households, sleigh bells jingling.
We had no steaming cups of hot buttered rum to offer — only red and green M&M’s — festive, perhaps, but not so warming. Even though it wasn’t icy and snowy, I wished we could have provided them a bit of hot, wet Christmas cheer. Maybe next year… if they are inspired again and we can keep our place on their list. Meanwhile… Let The Season Begin!
I was scuttling along the street, just like the crab I’ve become, and suddenly VOICES!!!!! CHRISTMAS CAROLERS!!! CHILDREN!!! OLD BITTIES!!!! They were going from building to building in this Hud facility filled with people probably remembering, and feeling a little sad at this time of year.
I am not the most religious of folks, but I knew then and there that there are angels on this earth, human ones…….out braving the covid to spread joy, a moments pleasure, and just plain goodness. So, when we think this world has had it, we must listen to the carolers. Always listen to their song.
And love to you and Nyel, Sydney. Merry Christmas! Cassy