In California’s warm embrace,
Where golden sunshine paints winter space,
A fond five-year-old with eyes so bright,
Takes in wonders of a special night.
Her tiny hands, fluttering with glee,
Hang glazed ornaments on the tree,
While laughter bubbles out through the air,
Love and joy sparkle everywhere.
With tinsel glinting, a star on top,
She twirls around and can’t help but hop
To the smell of cookies, sweet and warm,
With cocoa steaming, a cozy charm.
Not a snowflake falls, but hearts are light.
Family gathers, a loving sight.
They share old stories filled with good cheer.
Thus, in the Bay, they bring themselves near.
Outside, darkness begins to hold sway;
Inside, season’s magic leads the way.
With every hug, every song,
She hopes the wait will not be too long.
As night descends, lights full agleam,
She closes her eyes, begins to dream
Of reindeer flying in starlit skies
And what surprise may come at sunrise.
With her hopes high and thoughts so deep,
That there’s no snow, who cares a peep?
While it’s not a “traditional” sight,
The season’s spirit still shines just right.
© 2024, Kenneth Koziol. All rights reserved.