First Christmas

Twenty-four year old Trixie Frayne tapped her foot impatiently. She was anxious to get going. Each minute that passed made her feel as if they would never go.

“Come on. You said we were going to go today.”

“We’ll go in a few minutes,” her husband’s voice rang out from upstairs.

Trixie sighed as she sat down in the kitchen at the table. She wanted to get started. It was their first Christmas together as husband and wife, and she was looking forward to beginning traditions that linked their paths even more.

The first one was that they were going into the woods surrounding Ten Acres to find the perfect tree for their home. They both had agreed they would go that day, and Trixie wanted to get going.

“All right,” Jim said entering the kitchen, slipping his coat on. “I’m ready to go.”

Trixie leaned back and looked at him. “Are you sure?”

Jim smiled. “I’m sure.” He crouched down in front of her, taking her hand in his. “I’m sorry about taking so long, but that paperwork needed to be done.”

“I understand,” Trixie said.

“So, are you ready to go?” Jim asked, raising an eyebrow.

“I’m ready,” Trixie said, slowly lifting herself out of the chair. “Nothing is going to keep me from this.”

“Then let’s go,” Jim said. “The axe is already outside.”

“Then we better get going to find our tree.”

Jim put his hand to the small of her back and they left the house. Jim grabbed the axe with one hand and used his other to hold Trixie’s.

Together they slowly trekked through the half-foot of snow that covered the ground as they searched for the perfect tree.

“So,” Trixie began as they walked, “are things all set at the school?”

“Everything’s in place,” Jim said. “The kids were finishing up their service projects and will be wrapping them in the next couple days.”

“I have to admit the service project they are doing is a good idea,” Trixie said.

“I agree,” Jim said. “And I like that they are making the gifts for those who are less fortunate. It’s a good thing to do. Some of them were in the same situation and have been given the opportunity for a better life.”

“And they are also learning practical skills that they can use in the future,” Trixie added.

“Exactly,” Jim said. “And the care they are putting into these projects is amazing. They’ve been spending a lot of extra time on them.”

“I think the kids that receive the gifts will be extremely appreciative.”

“I think so too.” Jim stopped and looked at her. “Are you sure you’re up for this?”

Trixie sighed. She had heard the same concern for days. She knew he was worried about her and always would be.

“Jim, I’m fine. Yesterday, when I had the appointment with the doctor, I asked about taking a walk in the woods to get our tree. He said I would be fine as long as I didn’t push myself too much. And I’m not. The exercise is good for me.”

“All right.” Jim kissed her. When he leaned back, he asked, “Do you see a tree that will work for us?”

Trixie looked around shaking her head. She pointed in the distance where there were a group of pine trees. “Let’s go over there.”

“All right.”

Jim took her hand in his and they made their way through the trees. When they reached the grouping Trixie had pointed out, they both wandered about in different directions looking at the trees. Trixie looked at each tree, checking the height, making sure the needles were strong. As she turned to look at another tree, she stopped quickly. About ten feet away stood the perfect tree.

Moving closer to the tree, she realized it was the one.

“Jim! I think I found it!”

Trixie heard the crunching snow as Jim approached her. He said, “That is nice. And it’s the perfect fit for the living room.”

“It’ll look good in front of the large window,” Trixie admitted.

“It sure will.” Jim lifted the axe. “Just watch yourself so you don’t get hit when it comes down.”

“Got it,” Trixie said as she stepped back.

She watched in awe as Jim swung the axe at the trunk of the tree. She loved to watch him work. Even though he had his winter coat on, she could picture his muscles flexing as he swung the axe.

The tree finally fell after one last whack of the axe by Jim. He let out a breath. “Well, now we just have to get it home.”

“Can you handle it?” Trixie asked.

“Sure, but do you think you can carry the axe?”

“It shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Then let’s go.”

* * * * *

A while later, Trixie was sitting in the recliner in the living room of their home as she watched Jim adjust the tree in the stand.

“That’s perfect,” she said.

Jim stepped back and looked at the tree with a critical eye. “You’re right. It does look good.” He moved over to the recliner and sat down on the arm. “It looks really good by the window.”

“It will look even better when the lights and garland and ornaments are put on it.”

“It will, but can we do it later?” Jim asked. “I could really use a break.”

“Sure, we can do it later,” Trixie said. She gave him a mischievous grin. “Besides, we can’t do anything until the boxes of decorations are brought down from upstairs.”

“Ohh,” Jim groaned.

“I would do it myself,” Trixie said, “but you did hear what the doctor said.”

“I know. How about this? I’ll bring down the decorations later, but we’ll decorate tomorrow?”

“That’s fine.” Trixie struggled to her feet. “I’ll go make us something to snack on.”

“You don’t have to.”

“I know, but I want to.” Trixie kissed Jim on the cheek. “I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

“I’ll be here.”

Trixie headed into the kitchen feeling happy. She and Jim had been working to make sure the problems of the past didn’t repeat themselves and that if either of them had a problem, they would talk it out. They were working hard so that they could grow closer to one another, and to keep the past from hurting their marriage.

“Hey, Trix, come here.”

She turned and made her way back into the living room. Entering the room, she saw Jim was leaning forward in the recliner, staring at the television. She saw the weatherman was there.

“…is heading into the region. Significant snowfall will accumulate with about two inches per hour. The storm should start its way through the area around mid-day on the 23^rd. By the time the storm is over, there could be two feet of snow on the ground.”

“That sounds severe,” Trixie said.

“I know,” Jim said. He stood up and turned to face her. “I think we need to take stock and prepare.”

“I did go to the store the other day,” Trixie said. “I can do a quick inventory and get the items that may be a necessity if we do get snowed in.”

“That does sound like a good idea. I’m going to head over to the school and check things there.”

“Do you think you’ll be back for dinner?”

“How about you pick up some Chinese for us?” Jim suggested.

“That sounds great.”

Jim kissed her cheek. “I will be back soon.”

Trixie smiled. “I’ll be here.”

Jim smiled and hurried out of the house.

* * * * *

Hours later, Trixie was back at Ten Acres. She had gone to the store and picked up the items they needed in case they couldn’t get out for a few days. The store had been a bit crowded, with everyone stocking up for the impending storm, but she managed to get everything on her list.

Now, she was just waiting for Jim to arrive home. He had called to let her know he was on his way. She had arrived a short while earlier and knew Jim would be hungry when he walked through the door.

She took the dinner bags into the living room and set them on the table. Trixie figured dinner in front of a roaring fire was the perfect setting for the evening.

Trixie heard the kitchen door close and knew Jim was home. A moment later, he stepped into the living room. He moved over to her and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

“How are things at the school?” Trixie asked as they sat down.

“All right. I checked to make sure there are enough provisions in case the storm is worse than expected. The generator was also tested in case there’s a power outage.”

“Sounds like they are going to be well-prepared.”

“They sure are. In the morning, I will do a check around here to make sure we’re all set. The generator is close to the garage door. And the woodpile outside is pretty high, but I should probably chop some more.” He looked around the room. “I should make sure everything is secure here.”

“Jim, all that can wait,” Trixie said. “Tomorrow is another day.”

“I know,” he said, turning back to her. “I just want to make sure we’re all set.”

“We will be.”

Jim reached for one of the containers and poured some food onto his plate. “How are things in town?”

“A lot of people were scrambling to purchase supplies,” Trixie said. “They are acting as if the world is ending.”

“Did you get everything we needed?”

“Sure did. We probably won’t have to hit the store again until next week.”

“That’s good.” Jim pointed at the tree. “So, what do you want to put on the tree? Colored lights or white ones?”

“I think the colored lights will be perfect.” She looked at him. “Do you think you have enough?”

“I think we’ll have plenty.”

Trixie looked at Jim quizzically, not sure what he was talking about, but not going to let it bother her.

Jim turned to face her. “After we finish, I’ll bring the boxes down.”

“There’s no rush. If we do get hit with the storm, it’ll give us something to do.”

“Then what are we going to do tonight?” Jim asked, mischief filling his eyes.

Trixie softly smiled at her husband. “I believe we’ll think of something.”

Jim smiled. “I like the sound of that.”

* * * * *

That evening, once the empty dinner containers had been tossed in the garbage, Trixie and Jim settled on the couch together. Trixie leaned back against him as he wrapped his arms around her. She closed her eyes as she gently caressed her extended stomach. She couldn’t wait for their baby to be born in a month’s time. She was also looking forward to seeing her feet again. It seemed like a lifetime had passed since she could.

But most of all, she was anticipating the day when they would be holding their baby in their arms. Neither of them knew if it was a boy or girl and they were looking forward to the surprise.

Trixie could feel her body relax as Jim continued with his gentle touch. She knew she had to relax more than before, after spending time in the hospital before Thanksgiving. Stress had been a major factor, and together, she and Jim were trying to minimize the stress in their lives.

The kiss on the top of her head made her smile. She loved being with Jim. And the warmth from the fire bathing the room seemed to be lulling her to sleep.

“This is so nice,” Jim said quietly, keeping her from drifting off.

“It sure is,” Trixie murmured, turning her head sideways against Jim’s chest.

He brushed her hair back from her face. “You sound tired.”

“We just had a busy day,” Trixie said and tried to stifle a yawn.

“We sure did,” Jim said as he kissed the top of her head again. “Did you get all your shopping done for Christmas?”

“Yeah, I’m all finished. And amazingly, everything is wrapped too.” She took a breath. “What about you? Are you done?”

“I finished a couple weeks ago. Everything is wrapped too.”

“You know, I’m really looking forward to Christmas this year.”

“And why’s that?” Jim resumed caressing her stomach.

Trixie turned her head so she was looking at Jim’s face. “Because this is our first Christmas as husband and wife.”

“Then it truly is special.”

“It sure is.”

“And I think it’ll be a Christmas that we will remember for all times.”

“I hope so.”

Silence descended on the room once again, with both of them imagining what the coming days had in store.

* * * * *

The next morning, Trixie and Jim put the lights on the tree. Once that was done, Jim excused himself, heading outside to chop some wood for the fireplace. Jim wanted them to have a surplus in case they lost power and had to use the fireplace to keep warm.

As Jim worked outside, Trixie started working on the pies she had promised to make for Christmas dinner at her parents and for the Bob-Whites get-together. Every little while, she moved over to the kitchen window to watch Jim work. As each moment passed, she felt her heart beat double time knowing how much she truly loved him.

Trixie was pulling the last dessert out of the oven when Jim entered the house through the kitchen door. He stomped his feet and brushed the accumulated snow from his coat. Trixie could see his face was pink from the cold.

“Brr,” Jim said, rubbing his hands together. “It’s getting cold out there.”

Trixie glanced out the window as she moved toward him with a mug of hot chocolate she had been keeping warm. “I guess the storm has started.”

“I think so.” Jim took the mug in his hands. He took a sip. “Perfect. Just what I needed to warm up.”

“Do you want something to eat?”

“I’m all right. I think I can hold out until dinner.”

“Well, that should be ready in a little while. I figured I’d heat up some of Moms’ wonderful chicken soup and make sandwiches.”

“That sounds fine.” He set the mug on the kitchen table. He slid his coat off and hung it on the hook by the door. “Do I still need to bring down the boxes of decorations?”

“Yes,” Trixie said. “That should be the end of it.”

“All right. I’ll bring them down and we can add them to the lights that are already on the tree.”

“Okay.”

As Jim left the kitchen, Trixie moved over to the stove and stirred the soup. She turned to the counter, grabbing the bread to make sandwiches.

Within a short time, the food was ready and they were eating in the kitchen. Jim swallowed a spoonful of soup. “Mmm. This tastes good.”

“Moms always does a great job with her soups.”

“And you did a great job with the sandwiches.”

“Thanks, Jim.”

They continued to eat, listening to the wind picking up in intensity. When they finished, Jim cleared the bowls and plates before they headed into the living room. Trixie sat down on the couch and pulled one of the boxes toward her. As she took the lid off, she was assaulted by memories. Enclosed in the box were ornaments she had made in elementary school. Also in the box were ornaments she had been given each Christmas. She was surprised they were there.

“What have you got there?” Jim asked, sitting down beside her.

“Some of these ornaments I made at school. The others were gifts from Moms and Dad. Each year they got each one of us something that reflected a special time during the year. I guess when the gifts were put away, the ornaments were set aside so we’d be given them when we got our own places.”

“That sounds like a nice tradition.”

“It is.” She looked at him. “I know you had some traditions with the Wheelers, but were there any with your real parents?”

Jim took a mouse ornament with a Santa hat out of the box and looked at it. “Well, one tradition we had was going out into the woods to find our tree, just like we did.”

“I like that tradition.” Trixie leaned her head against his shoulder. “Was there anything else?”

Jim leaned back on the couch, pulling her close. “When I was younger, my parents made Christmas Eve just as special as Christmas Day. On that night, we would gather by the tree. Mom would sing. She had a truly amazing voice.” Jim’s voice broke.

“I’m sorry,” Trixie said, turning to face Jim and giving him a hug. “I didn’t mean to make you sad.”

“You didn’t,” Jim said, holding her tight. He kissed the top of her head. “I just miss that, you know. But I now have you in my life to make new memories and to pass these traditions along.”

“I like that too.” Trixie placed her head on Jim’s shoulder again. “But I don’t think I can start that tradition. You know I can’t sing.”

“That’s all right. We’ll find other traditions to instill in our future.” He kissed the top of her head again and caressed her stomach.

“You’re right. We’ll find other ways to create lasting traditions.”

“All right. So, let’s get to work on this tree.”

* * * * *

Trixie shivered, pulling the covers closer around her. She instinctively slid back on the bed searching for the warmth of her husband’s body. She felt his arm wrap around her stomach. Trixie shivered again.

“Are you cold?” Jim whispered.

“Just a little,” Trixie replied.

“Hang on.”

She felt the covers fall off her and she shivered again. A moment later, she was covered again and felt an additional weight press down on her. She felt Jim slide close to her once again and hold her tight.

“Is that better?” he asked a couple minutes later.

“Yeah,” Trixie said, keeping her eyes closed. “Thanks for grabbing the extra blanket.”

“No problem.” He kissed the back of her neck. He rubbed her arms, adding warmth to her.

Trixie rolled onto her back and looked at her husband. He propped his head on his right hand and gazed at her face. “You know I love you, don’t you?”

“Probably as much as I love you,” Jim said. “I love waking up with you by my side every morning.”

“I feel the same way.” Trixie pulled her arms out from under the blanket. She reached up and caressed Jim’s cheek. “You mean the world to me, Jim.”

Jim smiled. He leaned down and captured her lips with his. His hand snaked up to her face and held it. Before they could get any further, they listened as Jim’s stomach rumbled. Jim chuckled. “Sorry about that.”

“That’s okay. We should probably get up anyway.”

“If you’re still chilled, we can stay here.”

“I’m warming up.”

“I’ve got an idea. How about I go make breakfast and we enjoy it right here? We can make this a real lazy day.”

Trixie grinned. “That sounds nice.”

“Good.” Jim kissed her again. “You relax here and I’ll be back soon.”

“I’ll be waiting.”

Jim slid from under the covers and made sure she was bundled up. He pulled on a pair of sweatpants over his pajamas and a sweatshirt over the T-shirt he wore to bed before heading downstairs.

Once alone, Trixie closed her eyes and let her mind wander. She was looking forward to the next couple days. On Christmas Eve, all the Bob-Whites would be gathering at the Manor House to celebrate. They would exchange gifts and enjoy each other’s company. On Christmas Day, they would return to the Manor House in the morning to start the day with the Wheelers. Afterward, they would head to Crabapple Farm for dinner.

It will be so nice with all of us together. I love my family and the Bob-Whites. I really missed these times when I was away at school and I know that I will never miss them again.

“Arghhh!” came the yell from downstairs.

Trixie’s eyes flew open as she sat up. She knew Jim had yelled about something. The sound of his voice didn’t reassure her that it was nothing serious. She slipped her feet into her slippers and grabbed her robe. Trixie made her way down the stairs, pulling the robe on as she went.

Entering the kitchen, Trixie saw Jim standing by the kitchen sink. She heard the water running. Moving over to him, Trixie saw his right hand was bright red.

“What happened?” Trixie asked.

“I spilled coffee on my hand.”

Trixie took hold of Jim’s hand by the wrist and slid it out from underneath the cold water. Examining it closely, she saw that there were no blisters. It just looked like a bad sunburn.

“I think you’ll be okay.” She looked up at him. “Does it hurt a lot?”

“It feels all right.” He let out a breath. “Let me finish breakfast.”

“I can do it,” Trixie said.

“But I said I’d make you breakfast.”

“How about you do it tomorrow?” Trixie moved close to Jim. She leaned up and kissed his lips. “Let me do this.”

Jim finally sighed. “All right.”

Trixie turned toward the stove and saw Jim had all the fixings out for eggs, toast and bacon. She quickly got to work making both their favorites. Within a short time, the food was finished and they were both eating hungrily.

“This is good,” Jim said.

“It is,” Trixie agreed. She motioned toward his hand. “How does it feel now?”

“It’s fine,” Jim said, glancing at his hand. It was still red, but that was it.

“It does look okay.”

“I’m just sorry I did this this morning.”

Trixie reached over and cupped Jim’s face in her hand. “Accidents happen, Jim. And we just move on from them.”

Jim placed his hand on top of hers. “I love you so much.”

“I love you, too.”

They leaned toward one another and their lips met. When they broke apart, Jim cleared his throat. “Well, I guess our real lazy day has gotten off to a fast start.”

“I think we can make it work,” Trixie said. “That storm is supposed to come through here today and I don’t think either of us will want to go out there.”

“You’re absolutely right. So, what do you want to do today?”

A mischievous gleam filled Trixie’s eyes. “I’ll think of something.”

“Okay,” Jim said, slowly. “Well, while you do that, I’ll get these dishes done.”

“No way,” Trixie said. “Those dishes can wait.”

“Really?”

“Really.” Trixie struggled to her feet. She took hold of Jim’s hand and pulled him to a stranding position beside her. She gave him a grin and led him upstairs. They stepped into the master bedroom before heading into their bathroom, the door closing behind them.

* * * * *

Later that afternoon, Trixie was relaxing on the couch in the living room. Soft music was playing in the background. She smiled as Jim massaged her feet, which were propped on his lap

They had spent a quiet day relaxing together. They had taken a morning nap, wrapped in each other’s arms. Trixie and Jim had then had a leisurely lunch in front of the fireplace. Afterward, they had settled on the couch, listening to music.

“You look really relaxed,” Jim said, breaking the silence.

Trixie opened her eyes and looked at her husband. “I feel relaxed.” She reached out her hands to Jim. “Help me sit up.”

Jim took her hands and pulled her to a sitting position. She slid her legs over the edge. “Sit in front of me on the floor.”

“Trixie.”

“Come on, Jim. You took care of me, so let me massage your shoulders.”

“You don’t have to.”

“I know, but I want to. Come on, Jim. This is our lazy, relaxing day.”

“All right.”

Jim slid off the couch and settled on the floor in front of her. Trixie put her hands on Jim’s shoulders and started kneading his muscles. She watched Jim’s head fall forward as she worked. She could feel his muscles loosen in her touch.

After a little while, Jim leaned his head back and looked up at her. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

“Do you want some more tea?”

“That sounds nice.”

“I’ll go fix it.” Jim got to his feet, grabbed both of their mugs and headed into the kitchen.

Once he was out of the room, Trixie got to her feet and moved over to the window. Pushing the curtains back, she saw the snow was coming down steadily. The wind was also blowing and Trixie could barely see their driveway. She was glad they were warm inside.

Turning back, Trixie stared at the Christmas tree as the lights twinkled. The tree looked beautiful and she knew it was their tree. They had found it and decorated it to suit them. She knew the tree was just a symbol of the season, but it made her feel warm and comfortable. It made her feel at home and grateful to be back in Sleepyside with the family she loved and cherished.

Trixie felt the baby kick. She put her hand on her stomach as she looked down. “Little one, your Dad and I can’t wait to see you. And next year at this time, you will be experiencing your first Christmas with the family. We are so excited for the day we get to hold you. You will be loved so much by us, and your grandparents, as well as your aunts and uncles. I am anxious to hold you in my arms.”

“I’m looking forward to that moment as well.”

Looking up, Trixie saw Jim standing by the couch. She smiled at him as she moved toward him. She slipped into his arms, giving him a hug.

“Jim, I love you so much. I am so happy to be your wife.”

“I love you as well, and am thrilled to be your husband.” Jim kissed the top of her head. “This is just the start of our future.”

“And I look forward to spending all of it with you.”

“Same here.” Jim kissed her again.

* * * * *

As the night wore on, the storm outside seemed to increase in intensity. Even though Trixie knew she was safe inside, she was still worried. Thoughts began swirling through her head and she was afraid. She knew there was no reason to be since Jim was just outside, bringing in more wood for the fireplace, but a panic seemed to settle on her.

What if something happens? What if we need help? There’s no way anyone can get to us. The driveway is completely buried in snow. Neither Jim’s Jeep nor mine would be able to make it out of here. What if the baby decides to come a few weeks early? We won’t be able to get to the hospital. We’ll be stuck here. I don’t want to have the baby here, but in a hospital. That’s where we plan to have it.

“Trixie?”

She turned quickly and saw Jim standing in the doorway. He took several quick strides toward her and pulled her into his arms. “Trixie, what is it? What’s wrong?”

Trixie could feel her body start to tremble. She knew she had nothing to fear, but her mind was going into overdrive at the worst-case scenarios they could encounter.

“Shh,” Jim said, holding her tight and caressing her back. “You’re all right, sweetie. You’re okay.”

Trixie held onto Jim with her head buried against his chest.

After a few minutes, Trixie leaned back and gave Jim a small smile. “Sorry about that.”

“Don’t be,” Jim said, as he ran his fingers through her curls, pushing them away from her face. “Whatever it is, we can handle it.”

Jim led her over to the couch and they sat down. He continued caressing her back and the trembles seemed to diminish. He kissed her cheek. “You feeling better now?”

“Yeah, I’m sorry.”

“It’s all right. Do you want to tell me what happened?”

“I was just worrying about nothing.”

“I think it was more than nothing,” Jim said gently.

“I was looking out the window and watching the snow come down. I just started thinking that with this weather that if something happened, no one would be able to get to us.”

“Nothing is going to happen.”

“I know, but I was thinking the worst. I mean, what if the baby decides to come tonight. We can’t get out of here and help can’t get to us.”

“Trixie, you need to calm down. There is no need to worry about that.” Jim put his hand on her stomach. “And as for the baby, when we were at the doctor last week, the doctor said everything was on schedule for the baby to be born in a month’s time.” Jim kissed her cheek again.

“I know you’re right, but this storm has me worried. It doesn’t seem to be letting up.”

“The forecasters said that it would snow for 24 hours. That should end sometime tomorrow.” He squeezed her shoulder. “We’ll be all right, Trixie. I know we will.”

Trixie felt slightly reassured. She knew everything Jim said was true. Trixie knew she had nothing to worry about.

“You’re right,” Trixie said as she leaned against Jim. “I guess I was just thinking too much.”

“That’s okay.” He wrapped his arm around her shoulder and pulled her close. “So, what do you want to do for the rest of our lazy, relaxing day?”

Trixie snuggled into Jim. “Just be here with you.”

“I think that can be arranged.”

* * * * *

The next afternoon, Trixie was sitting in the kitchen wrapping the last of the gifts for the party that evening. She glanced out the window and saw Jim was still working on clearing the snow from the driveway. The plow from the school had made a path earlier and Jim was just finishing it up.

As she worked on wrapping the gifts, she allowed her mind to wander back to that morning.

A sweet smell seemed to fill her senses, waking her from a peaceful sleep. It was a familiar scent, but she was wondering where it was coming from. Trixie slowly opened her eyes and was surprised to see a red rose, right in front of her line of vision. She smiled as the rose was pulled away.

Looking up, she saw Jim sitting on the edge of the bed beside her. Her smile grew. “Good morning, Jim.”

“Good morning.” Jim leaned in and gave her a kiss. “How’d you sleep?”

“Wonderfully,” Trixie admitted. She propped her head on her arm. “Did you get some sleep last night?”

“I did.”

Trixie twisted herself to look at the clock, but failed. “What time is it?”

“Almost nine.”

“Wow. I can’t believe it’s that late.”

“That’s okay,” Jim said. “It’s probably a good thing you got all the sleep you did, especially since we have several parties in the next couple days.”

“You’re probably right,” Trixie said. “Did the storm let up at all?”

“It did. There’s about two feet of fresh snow on the ground.”

“Will we be able to get to the Manor House?”

“Sure. The plows went through Glen Road a little while ago and in a little bit, I’ll go start on the driveway.”

“That’s an awful lot of snow to clear by yourself,” Trixie said, concerned.

“Don’t worry about it,” Jim said, running his fingers through her curls. “The snow will be cleared and I won’t do so much that I hurt myself. I promise.”

“You probably want something to eat to get some strength before you tackle that job.”

“Actually, breakfast is all ready,” Jim said. “Come on. I’ll help you sit up.”

Trixie got herself into an upright position with several pillows propped behind her back. She watched as Jim grabbed a tray that was placed on the dresser, and set it on the bed, over her legs.

She gave him a sidelong glance after seeing the covered plate in front of her. “What’s this?”

“I promised to make you breakfast, and here it is.” Jim reached over and took the lid off the plate. “Ta-da.”

Trixie gasped in surprise. The plate was full of scrambled eggs that had been shaped into a heart. There was also several pieces of bacon alongside the eggs.

“Oh, Jim. This looks scrumptious. Thank you, but you shouldn’t have gone to so much work.”

“Hey, a promise is a promise.”

Trixie cupped Jim’s face in her hand and gave him a kiss. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” He motioned toward the plate. “Are you going to eat?”

Trixie smiled. “Of course, but I’m not sure I’ll be able to eat all this.”

“I figured there’d be enough for both of us,” Jim said. He moved around to the other side of the bed and settled beside her. “Let’s eat.”

“I see you’ve been busy,” a voice said, breaking into her thoughts.

Trixie turned and saw Jim standing in the doorway, covered in snow. She giggled at the sight of him.

“What’s so funny?” Jim asked, trying to sound harsh, but failing miserably.

“I didn’t know I married a snowman,” Trixie said with a grin.

“Real funny,” Jim said, shaking the snow from his clothes.

“Is everything cleared away?” Trixie asked, getting to her feet and moving to the counter. She poured him a cup of coffee.

“It’s clear and ready to be driven on.”

She turned back to her husband and handed him the cup of coffee.

“That’s good,” Trixie said.

“Is everything set for tonight?” Jim asked, after taking a sip of the coffee.

“Yep,” Trixie said. “All the gifts are wrapped and ready to go. This was the last one.”

“Good. I’m looking forward to getting together with everyone tonight.”

“So am I.”

Jim set his cup down on the counter and slid his jacket off. As he hung it on the hook by the door, he asked, “How much time do we have before we need to leave?”

“We’ve got a couple hours. Why do you ask?”

“I just want to make sure I have enough time to warm up. It’s cold out there.”

“We don’t want you getting sick.”

“That’s for sure,” Jim said. He moved over to Trixie and pulled her into his arms. “And I have a great idea as to how I can warm up.”

“I know what you’re thinking, but that will have to wait. I’ve got enough to do to get ready for tonight and tomorrow.”

“Are you sure you should be doing so much?” Jim asked. “I mean, the baby is due next month and I don’t want you overdoing it.”

“I’m not doing a lot,” Trixie reassured him. “I just want to finish setting up the tray for tonight and everything will be set.”

“All right. Well, I guess I’ll got put on some warm and dry clothes while you finish up here.”

“Thanks, Jim.”

“No problem.” He kissed her cheek. “If you want, as soon as I finish changing, I’ll come down to help.”

“I’d appreciate it.”

“I’ll be back in a couple minutes.” Jim kissed her cheek again and went upstairs.

As Trixie watched him go, she felt a sense of pure love and devotion to her husband. She knew Jim worried a little too much at times, and that was never going to change. But she knew he worried because he loved her. And she loved him.

* * * * *

The party at the Manor House was in full swing when Trixie and Jim had arrived. Jim had started taking the gifts into the house while Trixie carried the food inside. Brian, Mart and Dan had gone back out and helped Jim bring in the rest.

Once everyone was inside and the gifts were placed under the tree that was in the family room, the seven Bob-Whites began their party. As they started laughing and joking, Trixie realized how truly blessed she was.

As she looked at Brian and Mart, she saw they were so happy with the way their lives had turned out. She knew that their time apart had not hurt their relationships, but they each had grown and were now able to share their experiences with one another.

Her gaze then shifted to her best friend and sister-in-law Honey. She was glad the two of them had gotten their agency open and had even handled several cases. They worked well together, and she was looking forward to returning to mystery-solving once the baby was born.

Trixie then focused on her other sister-in-law, Diana. She seemed so happy with her twins and being a mother. She felt Diana was a wonderful mother, just like Moms and Honey, and hoped that when their child entered the world, she was just as good as them.

She then smiled at Dan as he settled on the floor by the couch. She had not seen much of him in the past year due to his work schedule as a police officer. She knew his job was important to him and that he got back to Sleepyside as often as he could. Trixie was thrilled Dan had been able to get Christmas Eve and Christmas Day off to spend it with his family, the Bob-Whites and his uncle.

The talk and laughter continued as they filled their plates with food and settled around the tree.

“So,” Dan said when there was a break in the conversations as he looked at Trixie. “Have you two decided on what you’re going to name your baby?”

Trixie looked at Jim with a grin. “Well,” she began, “we’ve been tossing a lot of names around, but haven’t really decided.”

“We decided we’d actually wait until the day the baby is born,” Jim said.

“What names have you been tossing around?” Di asked.

“Well, we’ve been thinking Adam, Alexis, Amber, Andrea, Amanda, Anthony, Ashley, Brad, Brooke, Breanna, Becky, Cameron, Caren, Carl, Cori, Carter, Corinne…” Trixie began.

“You’ve been considering every name you came across,” Honey scolded.

“Well, yeah,” Jim said. “We kind of figured when we see the baby’s face, we’ll know the name.”

“You two are impossible,” Honey said with a laugh.

“We’re just following the example you all set when you didn’t say anything beforehand,” Jim said.

“Too true,” Mart said. “Too true.”

“So,” Di said, setting her plate on the table. “Are we going to open gifts or what?”

“Open!” Mart and Dan chorused.

Within a short time, wrapping paper, bows and ribbons cluttered the living room floor, having revealed the special gifts that had been given to one another. Appreciation was expressed to each other, but they knew it wasn’t because of the gifts they had received, but because of the love behind it.

* * * * *

It was very early the next morning when Trixie woke. She wasn’t surprised she was up long before the sun. She had something she had to put the finishing touches on before Jim opened his eyes.

Trixie slid out from underneath the warm covers, put her slippers on and grabbed her robe. Silently she made her way out of the room and down the hall to her study where the gift was hidden. She entered the room, closing the door behind her.

She knew Jim had not found the gift, since he rarely entered her study. She had been thrilled when Brian and Matt Wheeler had brought it over and helped hide it away in her study.

She turned the overhead light on before moving over to the corner. Trixie pushed the curtains back, revealing the gift for her husband. She slowly ran her hand over the smooth wood. Her fingers then traced the engraving on the top. She knew that when Jim saw the gift, he would be surprised.

Trixie moved over to her desk and found the bow and ribbon she had hidden in the drawer. She moved back and got everything set. Once she was happy with how the gift looked, she exited the room and headed downstairs. Trixie went into the kitchen and heated the water in the kettle so she could have some tea. She made sure the coffee pot was ready to go when Jim finally came downstairs. Knowing she had some time until the water was ready, Trixie made her way into the living room. She moved to the tree and turned the lights on.

Stepping back, Trixie watched the lights flicker and create a rainbow on the gifts stacked beneath the tree. Part of her wanted to get in there and open the presents, but she knew the other part was telling herself to wait. And that was the voice she listened to.

Trixie spotted the camera on the table and decided to take a couple photographs of their first tree with the gifts below for the photo album. As she set the camera down, Trixie heard the kettle start to whistle. She returned to the kitchen and poured the hot water into her mug. Trixie sat down at the table and cut herself a piece of coffee cake.

She had just finished her first cup of tea when she heard Jim’s footsteps coming down the stairs. Trixie turned in the seat and smiled as Jim reached the first floor. “Merry Christmas, Jim.”

“Merry Christmas, Trix.” He moved over to her and kissed her.

When they broke apart, Trixie said, “The coffee maker is ready to go. You just need to turn it on.”

“Thanks, sweetie.” Jim moved over to the counter and turned the coffee maker on. He turned back to her. “Have you been up long?”

“Just a little while.” She got to her feet and moved to the sink to refill the kettle. “Did you sleep all right?”

“I slept fine.” He motioned toward the living room. “Have you been in there yet?”

Trixie nodded her head. “I turned the lights on and got a picture of the tree with the gifts underneath it.”

Jim raised his eyebrows. “And you didn’t open any of them?”

Trixie shook her head as she put the kettle on the stove. “Nope, I didn’t.” She grinned at Jim. “That’s why I was sitting out here. I didn’t want to have to fight the temptation if I sat in there.”

Jim looked at the coffee pot. “Well, this is almost ready. Why don’t we go see what’s been left under the tree?”

“All right.”

Once they had their mugs filled, they entered the living room. Trixie sat down on the couch while Jim settled on the floor beside her. She looked at Jim with anticipation, just waiting to begin.

He turned to face her. “So, how do you want to do this?”

“How about you grab a gift for each of us and we’ll open them at the same time?”

“Sounds like a plan to me.”

Jim moved over to the gifts and picked up a small rectangular box. Trixie knew it was for her because she didn’t recognize the paper.

“Jim, grab the one with the red, white and green bow,” Trixie said.

“This one?” Jim asked, lifting the box up.

“That’s the one.”

Jim settled back in front of her and handed the one gift to Trixie.

“Well,” Jim prompted.

“On the count of three,” Trixie said, grinning. “One, two…three.”

They both tore into their packages, paper flying. They each opened their boxes. Inside Jim’s was a hunter green sweatshirt. Inside Trixie’s was an ornament with a horse painted on it. Looking close, Trixie realized the horse was Susie, one of the Wheeler’s riding horses.

“Oh, Jim, it’s beautiful. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. And I love this sweatshirt.”

“I’m glad.”

They continued going through the presents until there was a pile of wrapping paper covering the floor. They each had received several sweatshirts and other clothing. Jim received some sports equipment that needed replacing, as well as a couple books that had caught his interest. Trixie had received several books she had wanted, along with a new camera.

“Well, that’s it,” Jim said, leaning against the couch as he looked up at her.

“I guess so,” Trixie said, looking around. “I’ll got get a bag for us to toss the wrapping paper in.”

“Actually, there’s one on the book case,” Jim said, getting to his feet. “I put it there last night.”

“Good thinking,” Trixie said as she started gathering the papers.

Once all the paper was in the bag, Trixie stood up and slid into Jim’s arms. “Thank you so much for everything.”

“I’m glad you liked everything. I liked each gift you gave me as well.”

Trixie looked at Jim. “Actually, I have one more gift for you, but it’s upstairs.”

Jim looked at her quizzically. “What?”

“Come on.” Trixie took Jim’s hand in hers. “It’s upstairs.”

They slowly made their way upstairs and down the hallway to Trixie’s study. They stepped inside and Jim looked around.

“Go over to the corner,” Trixie said, pointing to the one where the gift was hidden.

She watched as Jim moved in the direction she had indicated. He looked and she heard him gasp. “Trixie.”

Jim pulled the gift out and Trixie finally got a look at her husband’s face. His mouth was hanging open and his eyes were wide. He sank down in the chair as his hand moved slowly along the smooth surface of the wood. The box was made of oak and had been sealed, leaving the natural color of the wood visible.

“Trixie, this is amazing.”

“I thought you could put it to good use,” Trixie said moving over to him. She sat on the arm of the chair. “I know you’ve been spending a lot of time working in the garage, and I thought this might be a great way to store your tools when they weren’t in use.”

“Trixie, this is so thoughtful. How did you ever come up with this?”

“I know you take so much pride in the work you do and keep your tools in perfect condition. I thought this could be a way for you to do it.”

“It’s wonderful,” Jim said, turning to face her. He cupped her face in his hand and gave her a kiss. “Thank you, so much.”

“You’re welcome.” Trixie was pleased that she had given Jim a great gift.

“This is great. This is so great.”

Trixie knew Jim was happy with the gift he had been given as he continued to examine the entire box.

After a little while, Jim leaned back and looked at her. “Thank you so much, Trixie. This was a terrific gift.”

“I’m glad you like it.”

“And surprisingly enough, I have one more gift for you as well.”

“Jim, I don’t need anything else.”

“Well, I think you’ll like this.” Jim stood up and helped Trixie to her feet. “Come on.”

Jim led her out of the study and down the hall to the nursery. They stopped outside the door.

“Where are we going?”

“In here, but you need to close your eyes.”

“Okay.”

Trixie closed her eyes. She heard the nursery room door open. She felt Jim take hold of her hands and guide her into the room. She felt her heart start to beat quickly in anticipation of what she was going to see. They stopped and she felt Jim move around behind her. She felt Jim wrap his arms around her waist. Jim whispered in her ear, “Open your eyes.”

Trixie opened her eyes and stared in disbelief. She felt the tears form in her eyes and start streaming down her cheeks. She put her hand to her mouth as she stepped forward.

Sitting in the middle of the room was a rocking chair. It looked like it had been hand-carved. Getting closer, Trixie saw two words engraved in the back of the chair: “Mommy’s Chair.”

Trixie was afraid to touch the chair, figuring it was a mirage.

“Go ahead,” Jim said quietly.

Trixie touched the chair and ran her hand over the arms of the chair, feeling the smooth surface. The natural wood color made it blend in perfectly with the colors of the room.

“Oh, Jim, it’s beautiful.”

“Why don’t you try it out?”

Trixie sat down on the plush cushion, which was covered with a soft yellow and green striped print. She looked up at Jim as the tears continued to course down her cheeks.

“Jim, this is so perfect. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Jim leaned in and gave her a kiss. “I’m glad you like it.”

“This is amazing. I just can’t believe it.”

“Well, we had looked at so many rocking chairs and I knew you wanted one, but couldn’t find one that was perfect. I was so thrilled that you couldn’t narrow down your decision. It gave me enough time to finish this for you.”

“I love it, Jim. Thank you so much.”

“You’re absolutely welcome.”

Trixie looked at Jim with love in her eyes. She knew she was truly blessed to have Jim as her husband. He was so thoughtful and was always doing things to make her happy. This is the best Christmas I’ve ever had.

“Merry Christmas, Jim.”

“Merry Christmas, Trix.”

-The End-

Have a happy holiday season everyone!!

This story is written in honor of the 2004 holiday season. This story came to me one day with the need to be written. My thanks go to Amy and Kaye for their assistance on the editing of this wonderful story.

This is truly a fan fiction site and I am not making any money off of these characters.