EMPTY STOCKINGS A SHORT STORY

Missy and Dorabella bounded by me oblivious of the glittering ornaments on the lower branches of the tree. Miraculously, the fragile multicolored orbs were saved, but a few needles fell at my feet.
Jim, good-naturedly, scolded the pups for their antics and then, resumed tinkering with his camera. The two culprits ran over to where Sam sat and in addition to being granted protection. They were given loving scratches behind their ears.
In the corner of the room Maggie and Lisa whispered secrets. Such a contrast they were. Although both small, and slight in build, one was the color of dark chocolate and the other of pure vanilla. They looked so fragile, like precious china dolls.
Jerry scribbled at the desk and Kevin watched silently deep in thought. What was he thinking, I wondered?
It would have been nice had any of them been there to help me decorate the tree, but I was just grateful for their company, as I went about putting the last touches on the towering spruce.
I had almost blown off celebrating the holidays. So many sad things had happened in the last year. But, as I looked around and felt the ever-present warmth and love of those in my midst, I knew I had made the right decision to get family and friends together for a very special Christmas gathering.
The last of the stockings was hung on the mantel in its rightful place. Carols played in the background, filling the room with angelic voices. The tree glowed so brightly, I thought it would come ablaze at any moment. A hush fell as Jim, Maggie, Lisa, Sam, Jerry, and Kevin came toward me and the inviting lights. Even the romping dogs stopped cavorting and came over to where I was. Nothing need be said or gesture given. A wondrous feeling of contentment and peace enveloped and soothingly caressed me.
The doorbell rang jostling my senses. "They're here," I murmured aloud and left to open the door.
Suzanne, with Dolly the Beagle, and the rest of her menagerie were the first to arrive and headed right for the chair Sam had just vacated. Mame arrived with her new Cairn. I was amazed at how much this four-legged baby looked like Minnie. It took no time for her to find some of Missy and Dorabella's toys. My dear friends Stephanie and Celeste huddled in the corner deep in conversation. A dog walker without a dog when we live by the dog and die by the dog. This was a rare occurrence, but it was great to have the Pooch Nanny here. My beautiful nieces Jessica and Vanessa came from Houston and after saying quick hellos hurried to the desk and tackled some or other pressing business. How like their father these girls were. Angie showed up surprising us with a young woman and three children I didn't know. They also were from New Orleans and were having a rough time of it as of late. They were graciously welcomed into our group and instantly made to feel at ease. Mary came through the door with a steaming platter of eggplant parmigiana, Jim's favorite. Marlene, Carole, Aris and so many other friends and relations filled the house, I thought surely it would burst at the seams. Even Martha was in attendance, thankfully sans a moose though. Laughter and tears, stories and jokes were endlessly shared. Hugs and kisses were generously given.
There were a half dozen empty seats at the dinner table and two empty spots on the floor as we all gathered for the feast and to celebrate our first Christmas without our dear loved ones and pets. But, not one of the stockings was empty. Each was brimming with wonderful memories and caring thoughts and the love and spirit of a season that will live on for all time.


This story is dedicated to the memory of those I and the world lost in 2008:

Lisa Hansen Free Spirit and Friend
Caroline "Maggie" Smith Dog Walker and Friend
Sam Boyle Associated Press Bureau Chief and Professor of
Journalism at Columbia University and Friend
Jim Fleming Good Neighbor, Renaissance Man, and Friend
Kevin France Owner of Kehoe-France Private School, Teacher,
And Cousin
Jeremiah "Jerry" Leahy IV International Entrepreneur, Humanitarian, and
My Baby Brother


Dorabella Beloved Golden Retriever of Jim Fleming
Missy Beloved Cairn Terrier of Mame Rosenberg

MISSING Y'ALL

I've been lax in posting here and apologize for my laziness. Soon I'll once again be entertaining you with my ramblings. Thanks for your patience.
Please don't forget to give "MY STORY" a read. It's in 3 installments. So scroll down to where Part 1 starts and buckle up for a bumpy ride. Part 2 still requires a seat belt, be forewarned. Part 3 is not smooth sailing per se, but finally we coast to where old Cherie is today in her journey.