'Twas the Night Before Christmas

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, everyone was stirring, even a girl our grampa called "Mouse."

We went to the living room to wait with cheer.  "The Man in the Red Jacket" soon would be here.

We were doing what VanDusen do best, cuddling, taking pictures and having a feast, one man in a plaid vest.

When what to our wondering eyes should appear, but our very own Santa (minus the reindeer).

Thomas was so lively and quick, he grabbed on to Erica, so we figured it was another year of fearing St. Nick.

"Ho, ho, ho," he came.  He knew everyone by name.  First Laura, then Erica, then Nana and Drew.  Then Mama and Dad and Thomas too.  *the old guy nearly forgot Papa.
 
Festive headbands abound, and then the real treat, ice skates for the McCollums all around!

That peddler of candy canes had dear Thomas in wonder.   One, two , now three!  He got down on one knee and little Thomas said, "I like this guy," with glee.

When the candy canes were gone, he sprang to his sleigh.  To his team (Dianne), he gave a whistle.  And away they flew, like the down of a thistle. 

But I heard his claim as they drove out of sight, "Happy Christmas is a child who believes; it is truly a good night."