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- Story Listed as: Fiction For Adults
- Theme: Family & Friends
- Subject: Seasonal / Holidays
- Published: 12/09/2022
Holiday Joy
Born 1944, F, from Melbourne, FL, United States![Holiday Joy](/storage/story/BF523B4F-E249-163F-F1CF-00CBD62A9689_1670614967-image(180x285-crop).jpeg)
Holiday Joy
by
Valerie Allen
“Daddy, Daddy,” Joy yelled. The child ran toward her father and wrapped her arms around his legs as he stepped inside the kitchen door. “Mommy, Daddy's home!”
Jesse grinned, picked the child up, and hoisted her above his head. “How's my little gal?” He wiggled her in the air and she squealed with delight.
“Daddy, me and Mommy made Christmas Tree decorations.”
Sarah brushed snow from the sleeve of his heavy jacket and leaned in to kiss his cheek; he avoided her gaze.
He set Joy down and watched as she ran toward the table.
“See the stars? Mommy cut them out, I colored them, and Mommy sprinkled them with glitter.” She put one paper star in each hand and waved them so they sparkled in the light from the bare bulb which hung over the small kitchen table.
Jesse nodded and tried to smile. “Those are beautiful, Joy. They're as pretty as you and your mommy.”
“Look at these,” Joy said. She ran her hand across the small silver balls made from tinfoil, each fitted with a hook formed from a paper clip. “Mommy said we can make more decorations every day until Christmas.” The girl hopped and twirled around with excitement. The red and green ribbons tied to the end of her braids fluttered in the air.
“Wow, you gals sure have been busy.” He turned toward his wife but avoided looking directly into her eyes. “Do you think you'll need so many decorations?” he asked.
Joy clapped her hands. “Oh, yes! How will Santa find his way here if we don't have a Christmas Tree?” She spread her little arms as wide as she could. “I want a giant Christmas Tree for all my decorations,” she said.
Jesse rubbed his fingers across his eyes and onto his forehead. “That would have to be a mighty big tree.” His voice cracked. “Not sure we could fit one that big in our trailer.”
Sarah placed her hand on Joy's shoulder and bent down to speak to her. “How about you go put on your pajamas and then we'll eat supper?”
“Can we have hot chocolate after we eat?”
Sarah smiled at her daughter. “Of course we can.”
Joy snuggled against her mother. “Can we have some of the Christmas cookies, too?”
Sarah laughed. “Joy, you always want just one more thing!”
“Can we pleeeeeease, Mommy? Can we?”
Jesse bent down and looked at his daughter. “I think Mommy will decide about that after you put on your pajamas.” He gave her a kiss, and she skipped down the hallway.
Sarah watched as Jesse slipped off his jacket. He turned toward the sink, and slowly washed his hands. She walked toward him and leaned her face against his back and then put her arms around his waist. They stood quietly for a few minutes.
Jesse turned around and slowly pulled her into his arms.
“What's happened?” she asked.
He lowered his chin and rested it against her head. “Can't hide anything from you, can I?”
She pulled away from his embrace and looked up into his eyes. “No, you can't, so just let it loose.”
He took a deep breath and sat at the kitchen table. “Well, there's good news and bad news.”
Sarah followed him and sat in the chair across from him. “Tell me the good news first,” she said.
“I picked up that part-time job hauling Christmas trees for the week.”
She took his hands in hers. “That is good news. We may have a 'Merry Christmas' after all.”
He shook his head slowly. “Nay, I don't think so.” His eyes watered. “The bad news is this is my last week at Delivery Service Express. The new owner brought in his own team of drivers and he had to let the rest of us go.”
She clasped her hand to her mouth and then let it slip onto the table. “Oh Jesse, when did that happen?”
“This morning. I have to turn in the rig and my keys by Christmas Eve. They're only letting me keep their truck this week to empty out my tools, clean it up, and take it back to their garage.” He looked at her, “I turn in the truck and I get my last paycheck.”
Sarah lowered her chin and tried to hide her tears. She didn't speak for fear he would hear the despair in her voice.
“I'm so sorry,” he whispered. “I know I've let you down again.” He sat back in his chair and ran his hand through his hair. “We've got bills to pay and Christmas is going to be mighty cold when they turn off the electric.” He dragged his calloused hand down his face and across his chin.
Sarah touched his arm. “My sister said they're looking for part-timers at the diner for the second shift during Christmas week.” She raised her voice in excitement. “I could pick up some hours. She said the tips are great during the holidays.”
Jesse set his jaw. “No! You're not goin' to be workin' Christmas week. Joy needs you.” His voice softened. “You two need to keep makin' those Christmas decorations. Let her believe in miracles for just a few more days.”
“Jesse, we can make it work. You can do the tree hauling in the day and I can work evenings at the diner. My mom will watch Joy until you get home.”
He slammed his hand on the table. “No! Absolutely not. It's Christmas week.” He lowered his voice. “You and Joy need to bake more cookies and make more Christmas stars.”
Sarah's eyes brimmed with tears, and she leaned toward him. “We'll make it through this somehow. We always do.”
“I don't know,” he said. “I've asked around for work. I've talked to everyone I know. Problem is a man without his own rig can't get too many haulin' jobs. I only got the Christmas tree delivery job for the next few days 'cause I can still use DSE's truck.” He shook his head. “I just hope they don't find out.”
She sat up straight, her eyes wide. “You think your new job might give us one of those trees so Joy could put up her decorations?”
He smiled at her as if she was a young child. “Nah, these trees are gigantic. They're taller than our trailer is long.”
“Who needs a Christmas tree that big?”
“They put them in big spaces. I have one goin' to the hospital, one to the university, and one going to a hotel.”
“That's a lot of long-haul driving for a temporary job,” she said.
“Well, the pay is good, and the last two jobs are local. They're goin' over to the Family Fun Amusement Park.”
“Your last paycheck and this extra money ought to cover one last rent payment, one more electric bill, and get us to Christmas Eve. Maybe after that, you could do some deliveries with your pick-up. The thrift stores always need pick up and drop off for furniture and appliances. What about the hardware stores or auto parts places?”
“A man can't get a big job with a small truck.” He pounded his fist on the table. The brightly colored paper Christmas stars fluttered and landed on top of each other. He swept his arm across the table and the small silver balls knocked into each other rolled one by one onto the floor.
* * *
As the sun was rising, Sarah quietly closed Joy's bedroom door.
Jesse gulped the last of his hot coffee, slipped on his winter jacket, and pulled woolen gloves from his pocket.
Sarah poured hot coffee into his thermos and packed it into his lunch pail with two baloney sandwiches and a bag full of Christmas cookies. “I know you're going to be busy today, but maybe you could stop and buy a few coloring books for Joy. She has plenty of crayons.”
Jesse took a deep breath. “I'll try.”
“I'll help you clean the truck tonight when you get home,” Sarah said. She reached for her jacket on the hook beside the door jam. “If we work together, we'll have time tonight for you to bake a batch of cookies with Joy. She's really looking forward to it.”
Jesse pulled open the kitchen door and squinted his eyes against the snow. “No need for me to be home tonight.”
Sarah's eyes filled with sadness. “We want you home tonight.” She hugged him tightly. “We need you to be with us.”
He grabbed his lunch box and watched the snow drift onto the steps. He turned around and gave her a kiss. “I don't deserve you,” he whispered.
She let out a sigh of relief and touched him lightly on his cheek.
He tugged on his cap, turned his collar up against the wind, and walked toward the big rig. He rolled up the gate, stepped inside, and then secured the tie-downs. When done, he jumped to the ground and slammed the gate down with a loud clang. He climbed into the cab and cranked the engine to life. The rig rumbled and gave off the pungent smell of diesel fumes. Slowly, he drove the rig out of their yard and onto the highway.
Sarah watched from the kitchen window as the tail lights dimmed and then diminished as he drove away.
* * *
“Mommy, mommy, it's Christmas Eve!” Joy was breathless as she ran into the kitchen. “Can we make more cookies? Can we put up the decorations? Will our Christmas tree be here tonight when Santa comes?”
Sarah hugged the child to her and kissed the top of her head. “My, oh my, so many questions from one little girl. We'll get to all of those things, but first we have to eat breakfast.”
“Where's Daddy? Did he go to work today? When will he be home?” Joy asked in a rush.
Sarah turned away from her daughter and prepared hot chocolate. She spoke over her shoulder. “Yes, Daddy is at work, but he'll be home tonight.”
“I want him to make cookies with me. Did you tell him that?”
“Yes, Sweetheart. I told him about the cookies and he said he'd be home as soon as he could.”
Joy ran to the kitchen window and clapped her hands together.
“Looking out that window won't get Daddy home any sooner than he can get here, but I have a surprise for you and for Daddy.”
Joy's eyes grew wide. “What? What is it?”
Sarah let a big smile cover her face. “I've been thinking about how to make a Christmas tree and I have a great idea.”
Joy looked puzzled. “How can we make a Christmas tree?”
“You'll see!” Sarah said. “After we eat breakfast, we'll put on our warmest clothes and go outside to find what we need.”
“Is there a Christmas tree outside?”
Sarah raised her eyebrows. “Sort of. It will be a very special Christmas tree just for the three of us.”
“Will Daddy like it?”
A furrow crossed Sarah's forehead. “I hope so.”
They finished breakfast and bundled up in woolen coats, knitted caps with earflaps, and brightly colored gloves. Outside, Sarah took a large bucket from the storage shed and told Joy to fill it with as many rocks as she could find.
Sarah went to the pile of yard waste Jesse had cleaned out of the rig the night before. She pulled out as many of the fir tree branches as she could, dragged them across the yard, and hurled them into a pile at the bottom of the steps by the door. The smell of pine needles filled the air as they hit the ground and tumble one on top of the other to form a large stack.
Joy had the bucket half filled with rocks when Sarah saw her rosy face and her breath coming out in small white clouds. “You're such a good helper. You're doing a great job!”
Sarah took the bucket and hauled it up the steps and into the house. “Now let's start to bring some of these twigs and branches inside.”
Joy ran to and from the pile of tree clippings and dropped them near the door. Snow floated from the sky and Joy giggled with delight.
“Okay, I think we have what we need. Let's bring it all inside. We can work on our Christmas tree where it's warm.”
Inside, Sarah made them each a cup of hot chocolate and they shared a plate of Christmas cookies as they warmed up. Sarah pulled the bucket into a small corner of the room. “Now, your job is to hand me the branches and twigs. Give me the biggest ones first.” They worked together, putting the tallest branch in the center of the bucket with the stem nestled deep into the rocks and the smaller twigs surrounding it in circles until the bucket was full.
Joy watched and laughed as the Christmas tree took on a somewhat layered shape. “I like it Mommy. It is our special Christmas tree, and we made it all by ourselves!”
“Yes, we did,” Sarah said. She spread a white pillowcase on the floor around the base of the bucket.
Joy clapped her hands; her eyes sparkled with excitement. “It looks like snow!” She squealed with delight.
Sarah kissed the girl on the cheek. “Now let's put on all the decorations and see how pretty the stars and silver balls look.”
When they finished, Joy stepped back for a full view of the Christmas tree. “It's beautiful. I can't wait for Daddy to come home. It will be a surprise!”
Sarah glanced at the clock and hid her concern. “I'm sure he'll love it. Now it's time for your bath and pajamas. We may have to eat without Daddy tonight, so you can go to bed and be asleep when Santa comes.”
Joy crossed her arms and pouted. “No! I don't want to eat until Daddy is home.”
Sarah put her hands on her hips. “You need to take your bath and put on your pajamas, Young Lady. We've worked hard today, and we made a beautiful Christmas tree. Daddy will be home later.”
Joy was still upset as they ate dinner and she quietly began to weep. “Mommy, can I stay up until Daddy comes home? I can sit on the couch and rest and I'll be very quiet. Pleeeeeease.”
Sarah ran her hand down the side of Joy's tear-stained face. “I think you are a sleepy head after all the work we did outside in the cold, but I guess that would be okay this one time.”
While Sarah cleared the dishes from the table, Joy got the blanket from her bed and snuggled on the couch. She struggled to keep her eyes open. Before Sarah finished washing the dishes, Joy had fallen asleep.
Shortly, Sarah heard an unfamiliar pick-up truck pull into their yard. She looked out the window and saw Jesse get out of the truck and wave to the driver as he pulled away. Jesse had his toolbox in one hand and his lunch pail was poking out of a large bag he had half tucked under his arm.
A wave of relief flowed from her head to her toes and she took a deep breath. As he approached the steps she opened the door. A gust of cold air and snow flurries swirled into the kitchen. She slammed the door shut and gave him a hug.
He came inside and placed his toolbox on the floor near the sink. He pulled his lunch box out of the bag and then placed the bulging sack near the Christmas tree.
“Oh Jesse, I'm so glad you're home.”
He wrapped his arms around her. “Me too.” He eyed the Christmas tree. “I see you girls have been busy. It looks great.”
Sarah pointed to their sleeping child on the couch. “Joy is thrilled. She couldn't wait for you to see it.”
“Sorry, I'm so late.”
“What's happened?” she asked.
He grinned and let out a laugh. “Can't hide anything from you, can I?”
She looked into his eyes. “No, you can't, so just let it loose.”
He took a deep breath. “Well, there's good news and bad news.”
They sat at the kitchen table. “Tell me the bad news, first,” she said, dreading whatever she was about to hear.
“I couldn't get a Christmas tree.” He glanced at the makeshift tree in the corner. “I guess it doesn't really matter now.” He winked at her. “I didn't have time to pick up the coloring books for Joy.”
“Jesse, that's the least of our worries. Joy is delighted with our little Christmas tree and she has enough toys.”
“You know Sarah, you are somethin' else.” He shook his head and looked into her eyes. “Every man should be so lucky.”
“We're both lucky,” she said. “Now, if that's all the bad news there is, it's not so bad. Please tell me the good news.”
He turned toward the bag he had put near the Christmas tree. “See that bag? It has my last paycheck from DSE with an added Christmas bonus.”
Her eyes widened and she clapped both hands over his. “That's a nice surprise.”
“He smiled broadly. “There is also a bag of candy canes, green and red mint candies, a pink Teddy Bear, a talking doll with blond hair, and all kinds of what not Joy will love.”
“Wow! Where did you get all of that stuff?” Sarah asked, amazed.
Jesse's smile grew wide. “I got it from my new employer at the Family Fun Amusement Park.”
Sarah's heart pounded, and she jumped up and hugged Jesse. “Your new employer?”
“Yep. I dropped off their Christmas tree and mentioned I was looking for work. They hired me on the spot. You are looking at a member of their maintenance crew. The pay is better and we have fringe benefits–whatever they are.”
“Fringe benefits?” she asked.
“Yep, and the first one is a paid day off for Christmas!”
She reached out for him and he lifted her up into his arms.
Through her tears, she whispered, “Oh Jesse, this is true holiday joy!”
* * *
Thank you for taking the time to read
Holiday Joy
If you enjoyed it,
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~ ~ ~
About the Author
Valerie Allen, psychologist and author, writes fiction, nonfiction, short stories, and children's books. Her articles about mental health and parenting have been published nationwide. She has taught students in elementary school through those in post-graduate studies at various colleges and universities.
She lives in warm and sunny Florida where she enjoys fun with family and friends. She's all about good health and fitness activities. Also to her credit, she has learned many things about life and love while raising her six children!
~ ~ ~
Holiday Joy
by
Valerie Allen
Copyright 2022 Valerie Allen
All rights reserved
ASIN: B0BKN4HL4X
Amazon.com/author/valerieallen
For More Information, please contact:
ValerieAllenWriter.com
VAllenWriter@gmail.com
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or events, is entirely coincidental.
Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. No part of this story may be reproduced, stored in, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the author.
~ ~ ~
Short Stories
by
Valerie Allen
A Good Thing on a Bad Day
A License to Practice
A Marriage of Convenience
A Mother's Love
A Tooth for a Tooth
A True Miracle
Ad Hoc Committee
Best Wishes
Brotherly Love
Career Guidance
Conditional Love
Doggie Tales
Father's Day
Father-Son Bonding
Fire Engine Red
Fireworks on the 4th
First Love
Future Plans
Giving Thanks
Happy Horrible Halloween
Holiday House Rules
Holiday Joy
Holiday Traditions
Home for the Holidays
I Remember Momma
Just Be Cos
Ladies in Waiting
Leisureville
Love is in the Air
Match-maker
Mother Knows Best
No Goin' Home
Potty Talk
Puppy Love
Queen for a Day
Second Chance
Small Steps
Split Second Timing
Thank You! Mr. Jackson
The Big Winner!
The Garden of Love
The Lonely Life of Amanda Miller
The Penalty Box
Valentine's Day
Visiting Day
Words of Wisdom
~ ~ ~
Holiday Joy(Valerie Allen)
Holiday Joy
by
Valerie Allen
“Daddy, Daddy,” Joy yelled. The child ran toward her father and wrapped her arms around his legs as he stepped inside the kitchen door. “Mommy, Daddy's home!”
Jesse grinned, picked the child up, and hoisted her above his head. “How's my little gal?” He wiggled her in the air and she squealed with delight.
“Daddy, me and Mommy made Christmas Tree decorations.”
Sarah brushed snow from the sleeve of his heavy jacket and leaned in to kiss his cheek; he avoided her gaze.
He set Joy down and watched as she ran toward the table.
“See the stars? Mommy cut them out, I colored them, and Mommy sprinkled them with glitter.” She put one paper star in each hand and waved them so they sparkled in the light from the bare bulb which hung over the small kitchen table.
Jesse nodded and tried to smile. “Those are beautiful, Joy. They're as pretty as you and your mommy.”
“Look at these,” Joy said. She ran her hand across the small silver balls made from tinfoil, each fitted with a hook formed from a paper clip. “Mommy said we can make more decorations every day until Christmas.” The girl hopped and twirled around with excitement. The red and green ribbons tied to the end of her braids fluttered in the air.
“Wow, you gals sure have been busy.” He turned toward his wife but avoided looking directly into her eyes. “Do you think you'll need so many decorations?” he asked.
Joy clapped her hands. “Oh, yes! How will Santa find his way here if we don't have a Christmas Tree?” She spread her little arms as wide as she could. “I want a giant Christmas Tree for all my decorations,” she said.
Jesse rubbed his fingers across his eyes and onto his forehead. “That would have to be a mighty big tree.” His voice cracked. “Not sure we could fit one that big in our trailer.”
Sarah placed her hand on Joy's shoulder and bent down to speak to her. “How about you go put on your pajamas and then we'll eat supper?”
“Can we have hot chocolate after we eat?”
Sarah smiled at her daughter. “Of course we can.”
Joy snuggled against her mother. “Can we have some of the Christmas cookies, too?”
Sarah laughed. “Joy, you always want just one more thing!”
“Can we pleeeeeease, Mommy? Can we?”
Jesse bent down and looked at his daughter. “I think Mommy will decide about that after you put on your pajamas.” He gave her a kiss, and she skipped down the hallway.
Sarah watched as Jesse slipped off his jacket. He turned toward the sink, and slowly washed his hands. She walked toward him and leaned her face against his back and then put her arms around his waist. They stood quietly for a few minutes.
Jesse turned around and slowly pulled her into his arms.
“What's happened?” she asked.
He lowered his chin and rested it against her head. “Can't hide anything from you, can I?”
She pulled away from his embrace and looked up into his eyes. “No, you can't, so just let it loose.”
He took a deep breath and sat at the kitchen table. “Well, there's good news and bad news.”
Sarah followed him and sat in the chair across from him. “Tell me the good news first,” she said.
“I picked up that part-time job hauling Christmas trees for the week.”
She took his hands in hers. “That is good news. We may have a 'Merry Christmas' after all.”
He shook his head slowly. “Nay, I don't think so.” His eyes watered. “The bad news is this is my last week at Delivery Service Express. The new owner brought in his own team of drivers and he had to let the rest of us go.”
She clasped her hand to her mouth and then let it slip onto the table. “Oh Jesse, when did that happen?”
“This morning. I have to turn in the rig and my keys by Christmas Eve. They're only letting me keep their truck this week to empty out my tools, clean it up, and take it back to their garage.” He looked at her, “I turn in the truck and I get my last paycheck.”
Sarah lowered her chin and tried to hide her tears. She didn't speak for fear he would hear the despair in her voice.
“I'm so sorry,” he whispered. “I know I've let you down again.” He sat back in his chair and ran his hand through his hair. “We've got bills to pay and Christmas is going to be mighty cold when they turn off the electric.” He dragged his calloused hand down his face and across his chin.
Sarah touched his arm. “My sister said they're looking for part-timers at the diner for the second shift during Christmas week.” She raised her voice in excitement. “I could pick up some hours. She said the tips are great during the holidays.”
Jesse set his jaw. “No! You're not goin' to be workin' Christmas week. Joy needs you.” His voice softened. “You two need to keep makin' those Christmas decorations. Let her believe in miracles for just a few more days.”
“Jesse, we can make it work. You can do the tree hauling in the day and I can work evenings at the diner. My mom will watch Joy until you get home.”
He slammed his hand on the table. “No! Absolutely not. It's Christmas week.” He lowered his voice. “You and Joy need to bake more cookies and make more Christmas stars.”
Sarah's eyes brimmed with tears, and she leaned toward him. “We'll make it through this somehow. We always do.”
“I don't know,” he said. “I've asked around for work. I've talked to everyone I know. Problem is a man without his own rig can't get too many haulin' jobs. I only got the Christmas tree delivery job for the next few days 'cause I can still use DSE's truck.” He shook his head. “I just hope they don't find out.”
She sat up straight, her eyes wide. “You think your new job might give us one of those trees so Joy could put up her decorations?”
He smiled at her as if she was a young child. “Nah, these trees are gigantic. They're taller than our trailer is long.”
“Who needs a Christmas tree that big?”
“They put them in big spaces. I have one goin' to the hospital, one to the university, and one going to a hotel.”
“That's a lot of long-haul driving for a temporary job,” she said.
“Well, the pay is good, and the last two jobs are local. They're goin' over to the Family Fun Amusement Park.”
“Your last paycheck and this extra money ought to cover one last rent payment, one more electric bill, and get us to Christmas Eve. Maybe after that, you could do some deliveries with your pick-up. The thrift stores always need pick up and drop off for furniture and appliances. What about the hardware stores or auto parts places?”
“A man can't get a big job with a small truck.” He pounded his fist on the table. The brightly colored paper Christmas stars fluttered and landed on top of each other. He swept his arm across the table and the small silver balls knocked into each other rolled one by one onto the floor.
* * *
As the sun was rising, Sarah quietly closed Joy's bedroom door.
Jesse gulped the last of his hot coffee, slipped on his winter jacket, and pulled woolen gloves from his pocket.
Sarah poured hot coffee into his thermos and packed it into his lunch pail with two baloney sandwiches and a bag full of Christmas cookies. “I know you're going to be busy today, but maybe you could stop and buy a few coloring books for Joy. She has plenty of crayons.”
Jesse took a deep breath. “I'll try.”
“I'll help you clean the truck tonight when you get home,” Sarah said. She reached for her jacket on the hook beside the door jam. “If we work together, we'll have time tonight for you to bake a batch of cookies with Joy. She's really looking forward to it.”
Jesse pulled open the kitchen door and squinted his eyes against the snow. “No need for me to be home tonight.”
Sarah's eyes filled with sadness. “We want you home tonight.” She hugged him tightly. “We need you to be with us.”
He grabbed his lunch box and watched the snow drift onto the steps. He turned around and gave her a kiss. “I don't deserve you,” he whispered.
She let out a sigh of relief and touched him lightly on his cheek.
He tugged on his cap, turned his collar up against the wind, and walked toward the big rig. He rolled up the gate, stepped inside, and then secured the tie-downs. When done, he jumped to the ground and slammed the gate down with a loud clang. He climbed into the cab and cranked the engine to life. The rig rumbled and gave off the pungent smell of diesel fumes. Slowly, he drove the rig out of their yard and onto the highway.
Sarah watched from the kitchen window as the tail lights dimmed and then diminished as he drove away.
* * *
“Mommy, mommy, it's Christmas Eve!” Joy was breathless as she ran into the kitchen. “Can we make more cookies? Can we put up the decorations? Will our Christmas tree be here tonight when Santa comes?”
Sarah hugged the child to her and kissed the top of her head. “My, oh my, so many questions from one little girl. We'll get to all of those things, but first we have to eat breakfast.”
“Where's Daddy? Did he go to work today? When will he be home?” Joy asked in a rush.
Sarah turned away from her daughter and prepared hot chocolate. She spoke over her shoulder. “Yes, Daddy is at work, but he'll be home tonight.”
“I want him to make cookies with me. Did you tell him that?”
“Yes, Sweetheart. I told him about the cookies and he said he'd be home as soon as he could.”
Joy ran to the kitchen window and clapped her hands together.
“Looking out that window won't get Daddy home any sooner than he can get here, but I have a surprise for you and for Daddy.”
Joy's eyes grew wide. “What? What is it?”
Sarah let a big smile cover her face. “I've been thinking about how to make a Christmas tree and I have a great idea.”
Joy looked puzzled. “How can we make a Christmas tree?”
“You'll see!” Sarah said. “After we eat breakfast, we'll put on our warmest clothes and go outside to find what we need.”
“Is there a Christmas tree outside?”
Sarah raised her eyebrows. “Sort of. It will be a very special Christmas tree just for the three of us.”
“Will Daddy like it?”
A furrow crossed Sarah's forehead. “I hope so.”
They finished breakfast and bundled up in woolen coats, knitted caps with earflaps, and brightly colored gloves. Outside, Sarah took a large bucket from the storage shed and told Joy to fill it with as many rocks as she could find.
Sarah went to the pile of yard waste Jesse had cleaned out of the rig the night before. She pulled out as many of the fir tree branches as she could, dragged them across the yard, and hurled them into a pile at the bottom of the steps by the door. The smell of pine needles filled the air as they hit the ground and tumble one on top of the other to form a large stack.
Joy had the bucket half filled with rocks when Sarah saw her rosy face and her breath coming out in small white clouds. “You're such a good helper. You're doing a great job!”
Sarah took the bucket and hauled it up the steps and into the house. “Now let's start to bring some of these twigs and branches inside.”
Joy ran to and from the pile of tree clippings and dropped them near the door. Snow floated from the sky and Joy giggled with delight.
“Okay, I think we have what we need. Let's bring it all inside. We can work on our Christmas tree where it's warm.”
Inside, Sarah made them each a cup of hot chocolate and they shared a plate of Christmas cookies as they warmed up. Sarah pulled the bucket into a small corner of the room. “Now, your job is to hand me the branches and twigs. Give me the biggest ones first.” They worked together, putting the tallest branch in the center of the bucket with the stem nestled deep into the rocks and the smaller twigs surrounding it in circles until the bucket was full.
Joy watched and laughed as the Christmas tree took on a somewhat layered shape. “I like it Mommy. It is our special Christmas tree, and we made it all by ourselves!”
“Yes, we did,” Sarah said. She spread a white pillowcase on the floor around the base of the bucket.
Joy clapped her hands; her eyes sparkled with excitement. “It looks like snow!” She squealed with delight.
Sarah kissed the girl on the cheek. “Now let's put on all the decorations and see how pretty the stars and silver balls look.”
When they finished, Joy stepped back for a full view of the Christmas tree. “It's beautiful. I can't wait for Daddy to come home. It will be a surprise!”
Sarah glanced at the clock and hid her concern. “I'm sure he'll love it. Now it's time for your bath and pajamas. We may have to eat without Daddy tonight, so you can go to bed and be asleep when Santa comes.”
Joy crossed her arms and pouted. “No! I don't want to eat until Daddy is home.”
Sarah put her hands on her hips. “You need to take your bath and put on your pajamas, Young Lady. We've worked hard today, and we made a beautiful Christmas tree. Daddy will be home later.”
Joy was still upset as they ate dinner and she quietly began to weep. “Mommy, can I stay up until Daddy comes home? I can sit on the couch and rest and I'll be very quiet. Pleeeeeease.”
Sarah ran her hand down the side of Joy's tear-stained face. “I think you are a sleepy head after all the work we did outside in the cold, but I guess that would be okay this one time.”
While Sarah cleared the dishes from the table, Joy got the blanket from her bed and snuggled on the couch. She struggled to keep her eyes open. Before Sarah finished washing the dishes, Joy had fallen asleep.
Shortly, Sarah heard an unfamiliar pick-up truck pull into their yard. She looked out the window and saw Jesse get out of the truck and wave to the driver as he pulled away. Jesse had his toolbox in one hand and his lunch pail was poking out of a large bag he had half tucked under his arm.
A wave of relief flowed from her head to her toes and she took a deep breath. As he approached the steps she opened the door. A gust of cold air and snow flurries swirled into the kitchen. She slammed the door shut and gave him a hug.
He came inside and placed his toolbox on the floor near the sink. He pulled his lunch box out of the bag and then placed the bulging sack near the Christmas tree.
“Oh Jesse, I'm so glad you're home.”
He wrapped his arms around her. “Me too.” He eyed the Christmas tree. “I see you girls have been busy. It looks great.”
Sarah pointed to their sleeping child on the couch. “Joy is thrilled. She couldn't wait for you to see it.”
“Sorry, I'm so late.”
“What's happened?” she asked.
He grinned and let out a laugh. “Can't hide anything from you, can I?”
She looked into his eyes. “No, you can't, so just let it loose.”
He took a deep breath. “Well, there's good news and bad news.”
They sat at the kitchen table. “Tell me the bad news, first,” she said, dreading whatever she was about to hear.
“I couldn't get a Christmas tree.” He glanced at the makeshift tree in the corner. “I guess it doesn't really matter now.” He winked at her. “I didn't have time to pick up the coloring books for Joy.”
“Jesse, that's the least of our worries. Joy is delighted with our little Christmas tree and she has enough toys.”
“You know Sarah, you are somethin' else.” He shook his head and looked into her eyes. “Every man should be so lucky.”
“We're both lucky,” she said. “Now, if that's all the bad news there is, it's not so bad. Please tell me the good news.”
He turned toward the bag he had put near the Christmas tree. “See that bag? It has my last paycheck from DSE with an added Christmas bonus.”
Her eyes widened and she clapped both hands over his. “That's a nice surprise.”
“He smiled broadly. “There is also a bag of candy canes, green and red mint candies, a pink Teddy Bear, a talking doll with blond hair, and all kinds of what not Joy will love.”
“Wow! Where did you get all of that stuff?” Sarah asked, amazed.
Jesse's smile grew wide. “I got it from my new employer at the Family Fun Amusement Park.”
Sarah's heart pounded, and she jumped up and hugged Jesse. “Your new employer?”
“Yep. I dropped off their Christmas tree and mentioned I was looking for work. They hired me on the spot. You are looking at a member of their maintenance crew. The pay is better and we have fringe benefits–whatever they are.”
“Fringe benefits?” she asked.
“Yep, and the first one is a paid day off for Christmas!”
She reached out for him and he lifted her up into his arms.
Through her tears, she whispered, “Oh Jesse, this is true holiday joy!”
* * *
Thank you for taking the time to read
Holiday Joy
If you enjoyed it,
please consider telling your friends
and posting a review on
Amazon.com and other online sites.
Word-of-mouth referrals are
an author's best friend
and much appreciated.
~ ~ ~
About the Author
Valerie Allen, psychologist and author, writes fiction, nonfiction, short stories, and children's books. Her articles about mental health and parenting have been published nationwide. She has taught students in elementary school through those in post-graduate studies at various colleges and universities.
She lives in warm and sunny Florida where she enjoys fun with family and friends. She's all about good health and fitness activities. Also to her credit, she has learned many things about life and love while raising her six children!
~ ~ ~
Holiday Joy
by
Valerie Allen
Copyright 2022 Valerie Allen
All rights reserved
ASIN: B0BKN4HL4X
Amazon.com/author/valerieallen
For More Information, please contact:
ValerieAllenWriter.com
VAllenWriter@gmail.com
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or events, is entirely coincidental.
Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. No part of this story may be reproduced, stored in, or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the author.
~ ~ ~
Short Stories
by
Valerie Allen
A Good Thing on a Bad Day
A License to Practice
A Marriage of Convenience
A Mother's Love
A Tooth for a Tooth
A True Miracle
Ad Hoc Committee
Best Wishes
Brotherly Love
Career Guidance
Conditional Love
Doggie Tales
Father's Day
Father-Son Bonding
Fire Engine Red
Fireworks on the 4th
First Love
Future Plans
Giving Thanks
Happy Horrible Halloween
Holiday House Rules
Holiday Joy
Holiday Traditions
Home for the Holidays
I Remember Momma
Just Be Cos
Ladies in Waiting
Leisureville
Love is in the Air
Match-maker
Mother Knows Best
No Goin' Home
Potty Talk
Puppy Love
Queen for a Day
Second Chance
Small Steps
Split Second Timing
Thank You! Mr. Jackson
The Big Winner!
The Garden of Love
The Lonely Life of Amanda Miller
The Penalty Box
Valentine's Day
Visiting Day
Words of Wisdom
~ ~ ~
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Shirley Smothers
09/10/2023What a beautiful story!
I was afraid that Jessie might do something desperate. Thank goodness he held on and things worked out. Loved reading this.
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Shelly Garrod
12/21/2022Hi Valerie. This is a beautiful story of the Christmas spirit. And of not giving up when things get a little tough. The love between the characters in your story brought a smile to my face. Well done.
Blessings Shelly
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Valerie Allen
12/21/2022Thank you, Shelly. This is one of my "two hanky" stories, as I call them! I think it touches the heart to see how resilient people can be in dire circumstances when love binds them together. I appreciate your read and review. Best wishes for the holidays ~
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Lillian Kazmierczak
12/18/2022Valerie this a heartwarming christmas story! It also one many people can relate to today. Well written with an uplifting ending. I always enjoy your stories! Congratulations on short story star of the week!
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Valerie Allen
12/19/2022Thank you! So glad you enjoyed this holiday story. I started it last year but couldn't quite work out the ending I wanted and then it came to me. I'm always honored when one of my stories is awarded Short Story Star of the week. (A nice Christmas gift for me!)
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