‘Twas The Night Before a Cote Christmas…. #fetesGL

‘Twas the night before Christmas, and at the Cote’s house,
One single creature was stirring, cat Salem running about.
The stocking were hung by the chimney with care,
In hopes that by morning, some gifts would be there.

The children included Stephanie, Michael and me,
And with mom and dad, out of the house we would be.
Up the street at a church, lit candles all about,
As we sing Christmas carols telling what Christmas is all about.

After some songs, and shedding a tear, just one or two,
Back home we would walk, hand in hand, The Cote crew.
Then we’d jump in the car, off we will go,
Visiting friends and family, hoping for some snow.

Laughter and music, yes, oh so much food!
On Christmas Eve, the best kind of mood.
Then we head back home, smiles galore,
Wondering what Christmas Day will have in store.

After a good night of sleep, and an early rise,
I will wake up, the first of the family, but that’s no surprise.
The tree will be shining, and gifts sit below,
The stocking are bursting; we’re spoiled, we know.

Then one by one, Mike, Steph, Dad and Mom,
Will rise from their bed, the smell of coffee keeping them calm.
Hugs for all, “Merry Christmas!” we will shout,
We’ll sit by the tree, and one by one bring presents out.

No names on the presents, mom will instruct us from there,
Taking turns, we will watch, OOO’s and AHH’s will be shared.
Watching the smiles of your family is the real present,
As they enjoy what you’ve chosen, that feeling is pleasant.

Then it’s a food break, and coffee round two.
Stockings, and chocolate, a new movie will do.
Happiness if filling up the Cote house,
Maybe Salem will even get a new toy mouse.

Nanny and Grandpop will arrive for the feast.
Turkey and turnip, room for seconds at least.
We’ll share our gifts, and laugh a whole bunch,
Knowing that leftovers will be next week’s lunch.

That night we will sleep after a day of fun,
I’ll have a smile on my face and my heart beating strong.
Love surrounds me as I slip into a dream,
Knowing that tomorrow, more food is available, to the EXTREME.

Family, Family, FAMILY is what fills up Boxing Day.
Uncles and aunts, cousins and partners, will be on their way.
Nanny’s famous Pasties and other family favourites,
Sharing stories, we get back to the basics.

For in the Cote household, Christmas means one thing:
Love, laughter, family, and maybe some bells that ring.
For at the end of the day, things come and go,
But our family will last. That’s one thing we know.