A deep winter chill settled on the small town of Sleepyside. The coldness had begun on Thanksgiving when a snowstorm left more than a foot of snow on the ground. In the following days, the temperature remained low and more snow continued to fall making it certain it would be a white Christmas.

It was December 22 and a light snow was falling once again. The house at Ten Acres was warm inside making the young family comfortable.

“Trixie, will you hurry up? We need to get going.”

“I’ll be down in a minute,” Trixie called out from upstairs.

“That’ll be more like ten minutes,” Jim Frayne grumbled as he sank into one of the kitchen chairs. “I can’t believe we are doing this.”

Jim was thinking about what they were doing. The two of them and their 11-month-old daughter, Katje, were heading into the city to see his parents. Once they got there, all of them would be heading to the store to see Santa Claus.

Even though Katje had her first encounter with the man in red a few weeks earlier in Sleepyside, his parents had been persistent in their request to see Katje with Santa Claus for her first Christmas. Even though Katje would never remember the moment, they all would.

Jim continued to wonder why his parents couldn’t come to Sleepyside to do this, but knew they were continuing a tradition started the previous year when they went with Honey, Brian and their son, Petey, to see Santa Claus in the city. They had turned into doting grandparents and knew they were trying to be consistent with both grandchildren. And that meant the three of them going into the city, days before Christmas, to see the man of the season.

He didn’t mind the drive much, but with the snow that had piled up over the past couple weeks, he preferred not to go.

“I’m all set,” Trixie said coming into the kitchen carrying a bundle dressed in green. Katje had been dressed in a green snowsuit with a white hat.

“Good,” Jim said getting to his feet. “We should just make it.”

“I see someone is thrilled about this,” Trixie said sarcastically.

“I’m sorry, Trix.”

“It’s all right,” Trixie said, handing Katje to Jim. “I’m not too thrilled about this either. Christmas is just days away and there’s so much to do and we are heading into the city. We have to be crazy.”

“I would have loved to have done this a couple weeks ago, but with all the events that Mother and Dad were attending, they haven’t had much free time.”

“Well, hopefully we can get this done and get back here early,” Trixie said slipping her boots on and then her coat over her shoulders. “I have a lot of work to get done for Christmas dinner.”

“Are you making the pumpkin bread?” Jim asked as she zipped her coat.

“You wish,” Trixie said moving to Jim. “Actually, I think Cook is making it. I haven’t mastered that recipe yet.”

“Cook’s pumpkin bread is wonderful,” Jim said, his mouth watering at the thought of that delectable treat.

“It sure is.” She looked him in the eye. “Ready?”

“Ready. Let’s get this over with.”

“Lead on,” Trixie said.

An hour and a half later, Jim parked his Jeep in the garage under his parents’ apartment. The trip had been slow going with slick roads and a light snow falling.

They made their way to the elevator and pressed the button for the floor where the Wheelers’ were. As the elevator glided upward, Trixie and Jim rolled their eyes at one another from the music being played by Muzak. It was all instrumental and really muffled. They both preferred hearing the music as well as the words clearly.

When the elevator finally stopped at the floor they were looking for, they got off and moved toward the door of the Wheeler apartment. Jim rang the bell and turned to see Trixie loosening Katje’s snowsuit and taking the hat off her head.

It was almost two minutes later when a flushed Matthew Wheeler pulled the door open.

“You’re here,” Matthew said happily. “Come on in.”

They entered the apartment and Matthew lifted Katje out of Trixie’s arms. “How’s my little angel.”

“She’s fine,” Jim said, closing the door behind them. “She’s ready for another visit with Santa.”

“I bet she is,” Matthew said as he turned away from them to head into the living room.

Trixie and Jim exchanged a glance, wondering if the other had seen the same thing. From the look on the other’s face, they had.

After hanging their coats in the hallway, they followed Matthew into the living room.

Jim broke the silence. “Dad, I think you have some strawberry jam on your cheek.”

“I can’t have strawberry jam on my face,” Matthew said. “Your mother and I had French toast for breakfast.”

“Well, you have something red on your cheek.”

Matthew moved over to the mirror above the fireplace and turned his head slightly to see what his son was talking about. “Oh.”

They noticed the color rise on Matthew’s face as he pulled out a handkerchief and wiped his cheek.

Jim looked at Trixie and mouthed, “I don’t want to know.”

Trixie tried not to giggle. She wasn’t sure she wanted to know either.

At that moment, Madeleine Wheeler hurried into the living room. “I’m so glad you’re all here,” she said. “And my little angel is so cute.”

Madeleine took Katje from Matthew’s arms and cradled the little girl in her own.

“She was anxious to see her grandparents,” Trixie said.

“How was the drive in?” Madeleine asked.

“It wasn’t bad,” Jim said. “The driving should be okay until later when that snowstorm rolls in.”

“That storm is supposed to pack a wallop,” Matthew admitted. “But it’s at least a guarantee for a white Christmas.”

“I think we were guaranteed a white Christmas when we got socked with the storm at Thanksgiving,” Trixie said.

“So,” Jim said. “Are we ready to head out?”

“We just need to grab our coats,” Matthew said. “And then we’re off.”

A short while later, the five of them were standing in line waiting to see the man of the house. Christmas music was blaring from the speakers overhead.

“You know,” Trixie began, “I love Christmas music, but I think I’ve had enough of it this year.”

“I completely agree,” Madeleine said. “There were stores playing it right after Halloween. That’s just too early.”

“I think the owners think it’s fine because they are already putting the holiday items out for sale at Halloween,” Trixie said.

“I think playing it after Thanksgiving is fine,” Jim said. “There are some stations that play just one holiday song an hour and then on Christmas Eve, they begin a marathon of just holiday music.”

“If they all waited until after Thanksgiving, it wouldn’t put a damper on the spirit of the season,” Matthew said.

“Exactly,” Trixie said. “If you flood people with one thing, they are going to come to dislike it a whole lot sooner.”

“That’s the truth,” Madeleine said.

They moved along the line and it finally became their turn for Katje to sit on the man in red’s lap. Jim carried her forward and set her on his lap. He moved slightly out of the way of the camera so the picture could be taken, but still close enough in case Katje started fussing. But she was an angel as Santa Claus tickled her chin and smiled at the camera.

When they were done, they thanked Santa and headed off to do some shopping.

As they walked along, Matthew asked, “How are things coming with Dan?”

“All right,” Jim said. “He’s trying to get everything packed up so he can be out of his apartment by the first. He doesn’t want to have to pay for another month’s rent.”

“I don’t understand why he kept the apartment when he was spending so much time in Sleepyside,” Matthew said.

“The apartment was perfect for when he had late night classes and didn’t want to make the trek back,” Jim explained. “But with the schedule he has now, and that the cabin is now his, he’s ready to come home.”

“It’s nice that all of you will be in the same place,” Madeleine said.

“I can’t wait,” Trixie said excitedly. “I’ve missed having all the Bob-Whites around all the time.”

“With the seven of you together, that means trouble,” Matthew joked.

“Real funny, Dad,” Jim said,

“It’s just a shame Dan couldn’t have made the move sooner,” Madeleine said as they walked along through the store. “It’s just got to be a challenge with Christmas coming and all the festivities.”

“It’ll be tough, but we’ve all set aside some time to get the job done,” Jim said.

“That’s what the Bob-Whites are all about,” Matthew said, clapping a hand on Jim’s shoulder.

“That it is,” Madeleine said.

Trixie turned and looked at the others and asked, “Is there anything in particularly you need to look at?”

“Actually, I do need to go to the sporting goods department,” Jim said. “My rifle isn’t working right and I want to see if there is anything that can be done to fix it or if I should just splurge and get a new one.”

“I’ll come with you,” Matthew said and the two of them walked away.

“Well, I guess it’s just us,” Madeleine said.

“I guess so,” Trixie said.

“And since they are gone, I was hoping I could get your opinion on something.”

“Sure.”

Madeleine led Trixie over to an area that had a lot of supplies to make scrapbooks. There were shelves of various colored paper, a wall of stickers and embellishments and stacks of books to hold everything.

Trixie looked at Madeleine quizzically, unsure of why Madeleine would be in this section. She had never seen her mother-in-law be crafty, and creating a scrapbook was very crafty.

“I don’t understand,” Trixie admitted.

“I’m working on a Christmas present for Honey,” Madeleine explained. “I’m putting together a scrapbook from the moment we arrived in Sleepyside.”

“That’s a beautiful idea,” Trixie gushed as a smile filled her face. “Honey will love it.”

“Do you really think so?” Madeleine asked, glancing at the papers and then back at Trixie. “I’m just not so sure. I’m thinking I should get her something else.”

“Honey will love the scrapbook,” Trixie insisted. “It’s a very thoughtful gift and is made with love.”

Madeleine smiled. “Thank you, Trixie. I guess I just needed some encouragement.”

“It’s a great idea.”

Madeleine nodded and switched subjects. “Is there anything you need to look for?”

“Actually, I need to go to the book department,” Trixie said. “There’s a book I’ve been searching for.”

“Then let’s go,” Madeleine said, and they made their turn in that direction. “What book is it? Another Lucy Radcliffe?”

“There’s not another one due out until after the holidays,” Trixie admitted. “The book I’m looking for is Where the Wild Things Are. Jim and I were talking about books a couple months back and he brought up this book. He said it was a great book and had enjoyed it when he was younger. And with the 40^th anniversary edition being released, I’m hoping to find it for him since he doesn’t have it.”

“That’s a great idea,” Madeleine said as they neared the book section. “And hopefully we will find it.”

“I hope so,” Trixie said. “I’ve looked everywhere, even on-line, but have not been able to find a mint condition copy.”

“Maybe your luck is about to change.”

“Maybe,” Trixie said.

The two of them scoured the shelves, looking for the book. Madeleine had gone in one direction while Trixie had gone in the other. Trixie was getting discouraged and was beginning to think of other gift ideas for Jim.

“Trixie,” Madeleine said a while later.

She turned to her mother-in-law as she approached. Her face was unreadable. “Did you find something you wanted?”

“Not really, but I found something else.”

Madeleine lifted her left hand and Trixie saw the book, the one she had been searching for.

“Where did you find it?” Trixie asked, accepting the book. She turned it over and examined it carefully. It was perfect.

“I talked to the clerk and she was able to find it.”

Trixie looked at Madeline. “Thank you so much. Now my Christmas shopping is done.”

Madeleine smiled. “I’m glad I was able to help.” She lifted Katje out of Trixie’s arms. “Why don’t you go take care of that and we’ll meet you at the elevator.”

“All right,” Trixie said.

Several hours later, Jim and Trixie were back at the Wheeler’s apartment. They had spent the afternoon talking and laughing.

Jim looked at his watch. “Mother, Dad, we really should get going. The roads are going to be packed.”

“And with Daylight Savings time, it’s getting darker a whole lot earlier,” Trixie said.

“We understand,” Matthew said.

“We’re just glad you could come out today,” Madeleine said. “And that we could be there when Katje made a visit with Santa Claus.”

“It was fun,” Trixie admitted.

Within a short time, they had their coats on and were making their way down to Jim’s Jeep. Jim was carrying their purchases. They reached the Jeep and he opened the back to put their packages inside.

“Uh, Trix?”

“Yeah?” she asked, securing Katje in her car seat.

“What is this doing in here?”

Trixie looked up and saw Jim had one of her ice skates in his hand. “Sorry about that. I borrowed your Jeep the other day when I went to the Manor House. Honey told me to bring my skates and we were going to head to the lake. We never made it there and I forgot they were in here. Sorry.”

“That’s all right,” Jim said, setting the skate down. “We’ll just have to remember to put them in the garage when we get home.”

“Exactly,” Trixie said. “Well, Katje is all set.”

“So am I,” Jim said. “Let’s head home.”

They rode in companionable silence as they made their way back to Sleepyside, Christmas music playing through the speakers. The snow that had been falling earlier on their way into the city had picked up in intensity.

Trixie saw how tight Jim had his grasp on the steering wheel and knew he was trying to make sure they weren’t in an accident. She was glad she wasn’t driving. She hated weather conditions like this and knew the storm they were supposed to get overnight had arrived early.

“This is a weather alert. State Police have issued a travel ban for the eastern half of the state. Officials are requesting no unnecessary travel on any roads until further notice.”

“It’s great they announce that now,” Jim murmured as he flexed his hands holding the steering wheel and then tightened his grip again.

We’ll be fine,” Trixie said encouragingly, even though she was beginning to worry.

“How’s our angel?” Jim asked.

Trixie glanced back at the car seat and saw their daughter was sound asleep. “Out like a light.”

“That’s good.”

Before Jim could say anything else, that Jeep was hit from behind and sent flying into the white lining the road.

Trixie screamed.

“Trixie. Come on, Trix. Open your eyes.”

She could hear the voice calling her name, but she didn’t want to wake up. She just wanted to sleep. Her head hurt as well as her chest and she didn’t know why.

“Please, Trixie,” the voice begged, worry filling the voice. “Please wake up.”

That voice is familiar, she thought. I know that voice. Jim.

With all the strength she could muster, Trixie forced her eyes open and blinked to bring her surroundings into focus. But her vision didn’t clear, everything was blurry.

“Jim?” she whispered.

“I’m here.” She felt his hand squeeze her arm. “Where are you hurt?”

“My head,” Trixie whispered. “And my chest.”

“Your chest probably hurts because the seatbelt kept you from going through the windshield.”

“Is that your professional opinion?” Trixie asked as she closed her eyes.

“I’m not the doctor, your brother is.” Jim squeezed her arm again. “Don’t go to sleep.”

“I won’t. My head just hurts.”

“Okay.”

Trixie could hear the relief in his voice. “Jim, what about you? Are you hurt?”

“I think my leg may be broken.”

“Oh no.” Trixie couldn’t believe they were both injured. And she had no idea how they were injured. “Jim, what happened?” she asked quickly. “I don’t remember.”

“It’s okay,” Jim said. “We were in an accident on our way home.”

“ON our way home?” Trixie repeated.

“We had met Mother and Dad in the city and had taken Katje to see Santa.”

“KATJE!” Trixie exclaimed, opening her eyes. She turned slightly in her seat to look in the back, wincing in pain.

“She’s okay,” Jim said. “I check on her the best I could. She’s sleeping again and doesn’t seem to have any injuries.”

“What a relief,” Trixie said, her eyes sliding shut once again as her head leaned against the headrest. “We need to get help.”

“The storm is still raging,” Jim said. “The snow is so thick that it’s not going to be easy for them to search.”

“We need to try,” Trixie said. “We’re in too much danger here. What if another car comes along and hits us? There’s no way for us to get out of the way.”

“Do you have your cell handy?” Jim asked. “I can’t seem to find mine.”

“Hang on.” Trixie slowly reached into her coat pocket and pulled her phone out. She handed it to Jim.

She listened as it was powered up and Jim started pressing buttons.

“Hello? My name is Jim Frayne and I was in an accident on the Interstate. There are injuries and we are unable to get out.”

Trixie tuned out the rest of the conversation as the throbbing in her head seemed to intensify. She wanted to go to sleep, but knew that would have to wait until they were rescued.

“They are sending someone out,” Jim said.

“That’s good,” Trixie murmured, feeling the call of slumber.

“Trixie, open your eyes,” Jim said.

She did as he said and tried to focus on him. But she could just make out his silhouette. “I just want to close them. They hurt so much.”

“Trixie, I need you to keep them open,” Jim said. “When help gets here, you can close them, but not until then.”

“Party-pooper,” Trixie said sarcastically.

“Thank you,” Jim said.

Trixie smiled. She knew their situation was serious and they just needed to be patient. The emergency crews would find them and get them to the hospital. Jim was doing all he could to keep their spirits up.

“Are you sure your leg is broken?” Trixie asked as she reached for Jim. She felt him put his hand in hers.

“I think so,” Jim said. “But I’m not a doctor.”

“Are you hurt anywhere else?”

“I have a little bump on the side of my head, but I didn’t lose consciousness.” He squeezed her hand. “I’m more worried about you. It took several minutes for you to respond to me.”

“I’ll be okay,” Trixie said.

“You always are.”

At that moment they both heard a gurgle from the back seat and knew Katje was waking up.

Trixie knew she wasn’t going to be able to reach in back and get their daughter. “Jim, can you reach her?”

“I’ll try.”

She watched blurrily as Jim unclasped his seatbelt and turned in his seat. She heard him taking in short breaths of air and knew his injured leg was causing him pain.

“Jim, if you’re hurting, don’t try it.”

“I’ve got it,” Jim gasped.

Trixie bit her lip and waited. She heard the locks of the small seatbelt open. She heard Katje’s gurgling get closer and knew Jim had her in the front seat with them.

“Is she really all right?” Trixie asked as she reached over to touch Katje with her left hand. She wished her vision would clear.

“She’s fine,” Jim said. “Not a scratch.”

“We probably shouldn’t have moved her,” she said as an afterthought.

“It’s too late now,” Jim said. “Besides, I wasn’t going to let her just lie there crying when I could offer her some cuddling.”

“Good thinking.”

A short while later, they were able to hear a siren approaching in the distance.

“Is that help?” Trixie asked.

“I hope so,” Jim said.

The siren got closer and then Katje added her wails to the loud noise. Just as they thought the emergency crew was on top of them, the siren began to fade.

“They passed us,” Trixie cried out.

“They’ll be back.”

Trixie heard Jim punching buttons on her phone again. “Hello? This is Jim Frayne. I called a while ago about being in an accident and the emergency crews went right by us.” He paused. “Okay, I will stay on the line with you.”

Trixie knew the person on the other end was going to try to get direct contact with the rescuers. She could still hear the siren in the distance and hoped with all her might that they were coming back. The just had to.

Minutes passed and finally she could hear the sirens coming closer once again. The siren was steady for a moment and she felt some relief that they had been rescued.

A cool breeze touched her face as Jim’s door was opened. Snowflakes melted as soon as they touched her cheek.

“How many injuries?” a new voice asked.

“Two,” Jim answered. “I think my leg is broken. My wife’s chest hurts as well as her head.”

“We’ll have you both out of here in a minute,” the male voice said. “What about the baby? Any injuries?”

“She’s fine,” Jim said. “She slept through it all.”

“Okay. But we’ll have her checked out anyway.”

“All right,” Jim said.

A moment later, Trixie’s door was pulled open and she felt a hand touch her arm. She turned her head in that direction.

“Miss, we’re going to slide a backboard behind you so that we can get you out of here,” a female voice said.

“But my back doesn’t hurt,” Trixie said.

“You may have hurt your ribs and the board will help keep you as immobile as possible until you’re checked by a doctor,” the female explained.

“All right,” Trixie said.

She allowed them to lean her forward a bit and slide the backboard behind her. She was leaned back and secured to the board. Wincing slightly in pain, she was taken out of the Jeep in the blowing wind and snow, and taken to the ambulance.

Trixie heard the doors close and moments later, the ambulance was moving.

“Where’s Jim?” Trixie asked as loud as possible, trying to be heard over the wail of the siren.

“They are coming in the other ambulance,” the female voice said. “It was taking a little longer to get him out of the Jeep.”

“Okay.”

Hours later, Trixie was resting comfortably in a room on the third floor of the hospital in White Plains. It had been closer than the one in the city or Sleepyside.

She vaguely recalled her arrival at the hospital. She knew she had been in the ambulance, but didn’t know how quickly they had gotten to their destination. Trixie recalled opening her eyes, her vision clearer than before and staring into the hazel eyes of a doctor who appeared to be in his late 40s or early 50s.

“How are you feeling?” he asked.

“A little tired,” Trixie admitted.

“Well, you just relax and we’ll have you patched up in no time.”

“Okay. But where is my husband and daughter?”

“I believe they are on their way in now. And hopefully you’ll be patched up to see them when they get here.”

“I hope so.”

“We’re going to have some x-rays taken and go from there.”

“Sounds good,” Trixie said as the throbbing in her head increased as she closed her eyes.

And that was it. Part of her thought the doctors had given her something for the pain that had knocked her out. And in truth, she wasn’t feeling much pain at all.

Trixie reached for the nurse’s call button. She was all alone in the room and wondered where Jim and Katje were. She knew they were supposed to be coming along as well in the second ambulance. Trixie wondered if the storm had intensified even more and they were stuck somewhere. She just hoped it wasn’t true.

“Yes, Mrs. Frayne?” a voice asked as the door opened. “Is there something you need?”

Trixie looked at the young woman with her long hair pulled back in a braid as she approached the bed.

“Do you know where my husband is? Or my daughter?”

“I don’t know, but I can see if I can find anything out,” the woman said.

“That would be great,” Trixie said.

“I’ll be back in a few minutes,” the woman said and left the room.

 

Trixie closed her eyes as she waited. She hated to admit it because she wasn’t really a worrier, but she was. She knew Jim had been hurt and he had said Katje was unharmed, but she needed to see them both. She had to look them over with her own eyes to gauge whether they were really all right or not.

Hearing the door, Trixie opened her eyes to see the young woman returning.

“Your husband is down in x-ray right now and your daughter is with the police.”

“The police! Why?”

“Relax, Mrs. Frayne,” she said. “Your daughter is with the officer because she couldn’t go to x-ray with your husband. He’s on his way up here now with her.”

Trixie let out a breath. But she still wanted to see her husband and daughter.

A few minutes later there was a knock on the door. The woman opened the door to reveal a police officer. In his arms was Katje.

“Mrs. Frayne,” the officer said moving over to the bed.

“Thank you for taking care of her,” Trixie said as she was handed their little girl.

“It was my pleasure,” the officer said. “She’s been the perfect little angel since we got here.”

“I do appreciate it,” Trixie said, pulling her close, mindful of her sore chest.

“Since you are all set, I’ll be on my way.”

“Thank you, officer.”

“You’re welcome.”

The officer and the young woman left the room. Trixie kissed the top of Katje’s head, grateful her daughter was safe and unharmed. She hated leaving the Jeep without Jim and Katje, but knew the paramedics had been worried about her injuries.

“I’m so glad you’re okay,” Trixie said softly. “Mommy was worried, but your Daddy said you were all right. And now we just have to wait to see him. Hopefully it won’t be too much longer until he gets up here. I just need to see him for myself.”

Trixie leaned back on the bed and Katje curled up against her. She felt content as her daughter went to sleep.

A gentle caress on her cheek brought her out of her slumber. She opened her eyes and turned her heard to the left. A bright smile filled her face.

“How are you feeling?”

“I’m much better now, Jim,” she said, taking his hand in hers. “I was worried about you.”

“I’m okay. I’ve got a broken let, but I’m all right.”

“I’m so relieved.”

“What about you?” Jim asked.

“I have a mild concussion and some bruised ribs. One is cracked, but I will be okay. Things could have been a whole lot worse.”

“I think we were both really lucky,” Jim said.

“All three of us were lucky,” Trixie said.

“Did the doctor say when you’d be released?”

“I haven’t heard anything,” Trixie admitted. “I just hope it won’t be long.”

“Hopefully it won’t,” Jim said.

Trixie looked Jim over carefully and saw the exhaustion on his face. She knew that the accident had taken a lot out of him following the day they had.

“Are you leaving the hospital?” Trixie asked.

Jim shook his head. “I’m not going anywhere. The storm is still raging outside and I doubt I would find a ride.”

“Where are you going to sleep? You look exhausted.”

“I’m fine right here,” Jim said, tapping the arm of the chair.

“You can’t sleep there.”

“Sure I can.”

“Come join us here,” Trixie said, shifting over to the far side as slowly as possible, trying not to wince in pain. “We can all fit.”

‘Trixie…”

“Jim, please,” Trixie whispered. “I need you beside me.” She didn’t want to beg, but she wasn’t going to take no for an answer. She had worried for a while and knew the only way to get past the fear was to be close to him.

“All right.”

Jim heaved himself out of the chair and sat down on the bed. He leaned on his right side and stretched his right arm out so that it was under her head. She settled her head on his shoulder. She felt Jim rest his left hand on top of her so that the three of them were cuddling close together.

Jim kissed the top of her head as she closed her eyes. Trixie said, “I love you, Jim.”

“I love you, too.”

And within minutes, the family was sound asleep.

When they woke the next morning the first thing they noticed was the sun streaming through the window onto the bed where they slept. Trixie tried burying her head deeper, but the light was very bright. She knew there would be no more sleeping for her.

She reluctantly opened her eyes and smiled when she saw she was beside her husband. She tilted her head slight and saw his eyes were closed. Part of her was surprised he wasn’t awake, but attributed it to their adventure the previous day that they weren’t expecting. The exhaustion she had seen on his face was gone. He looked relaxed and peaceful.

Trixie shifted her gaze to their daughter and saw she was curled on her side, her tiny fists clenched around Jim’s shirt. She smiled at the scene figuring Katje didn’t want her father to go anywhere.

“What has you so happy this early in the morning.”

Trixie lifted her head to look into Jim’s green eyes.

“I’m just admiring our daughter,” Trixie said. “She just looks so precious hanging onto your shirt like she is.”

“She is definitely precious.”

Jim slid his arm from behind Trixie and sat up slightly. “How are you feeling, Trix?”

“Better.”

“That’s good.”

“Do you think we’ll get home today?” Trixie asked.

“It’s possible,” Jim answered. “But you’re not going anywhere unless the doctor says so.”

“I know.” Trixie felt wiggling and looked down to see Katje was beginning to wake. “She’s probably hungry.”

“I brought the baby bag with me when I left the Jeep,” Jim said as he slid off the bed slowly. He reached for the chair he had been sitting in the night before and picked the bag up, which had been hanging on the arm. “There should still be food in here, right?”

“There should,” Trixie said. “I usually pack more than we need.”

“And there is,” Jim said, pulling a jar and spoon out of the bag. “This should satisfy her appetite.”

“For now,” Trixie said.

“True.” He handed her the two items. “You’re probably hungry too.”

“A little. What about you?”

“A bit.” Jim grabbed the crutches that were leaning against the wall. “I wonder what you’ll get for breakfast.”

“Probably something that’s not edible,” Trixie said.

“I’m going to head to the cafeteria and see what I can scrounge up,” Jim said. “I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

“See if you can get the weather report, too,” Trixie said. “If we can get out of here, I want to go home.”

“Got it,” Jim said and hobbled out of the room.

Half an hour later Jim returned to the room, a plastic bag with handles dangling from his left hand.

“I see you found something,” Trixie said.

“That I did.” Jim set the bag on the table. “Has the doctor been by?”

“He should be here soon. The nurse stopped by a few minutes ago.”

“That’s good,” Jim said as he settled in the chair. “Hopefully you’ll get discharged.”

“Is the weather clearing?”

“The sun is shining and, from the reports, the plows have been out all night removing the snow.”

“That’s great,” Trixie said excitedly and then turned serious. “But how are we going to get home. The Jeep isn’t here.”

“Don’t worry about that right now,” Jim said. “When you’re released, I’ll call Dad to have him send the limo.”

“Oooh, we’ll be going home in style,” Trixie said.

“It’ll be more comfortable for both of us,” Jim said.

“Wait, you said you’d have him send the limo. Does he know we were in an accident?”

Jim nodded. “I called him when I was brought in. He was going to call your parents and then wait to hear from me again today. They know we weren’t seriously hurt and that we were staying as just a precaution.”

“Okay.”

The door to the room opened and Trixie recognized the doctor who had treated her in the emergency room. She said, “Hi, Doctor.”

“Hi. How are you feeling?”

“Fine.”

“Do you have a headache? Any blurred vision? Nausea?”

“None,” Trixie said.

“What about your ribs?” the doctor asked.

“There’s just a little twinge when I move to fast. But it doesn’t hurt much.”

“That’s good to hear.” He looked over her chart and then back at her. “Well, as long as you take it easy until those ribs heal, I think we can release you.”

“Wonderful,” Trixie said.

“If you start to feel ill or get headaches or your vision changes, get to your doctor.”

“I promise,” Trixie said.

“Absolutely,” Jim said.

“I’ll go get the papers ready and you’ll be free to go.”

“Thank you,” Trixie said.

The doctor smiled and then left the room.

Trixie turned to Jim. “I guess you better make that phone call.”

“I’m on it,” Jim said, reaching for the extension on the table beside Trixie.

The next day, Jim and Trixie slept in. They had been on the phone with their families most of the day following their release from the hospital, assuring them that they were really all right. Trixie’s parents had stopped by with dinner in tow. Trixie knew they had used the dinner excuse just as a way to check and make sure they were really all right.

They had been grateful Peter and Helen had brought dinner because neither of them felt like cooking and were in the process of deciding what they wanted to eat.

Trixie slowly rolled onto her back and draper her arm over her eyes. She knew it was Christmas Eve and there was a lot to be done. Part of her wanted to just stay in bed, but another part told her to get moving because it would be Katje’s first Christmas.

“I don’t want to get up,” Jim murmured as he shifted on his side of the bed.

“Me either,” Trixie said. “But we should. Katje will start crying soon.”

“You’re right.”

As if on cue, Katje began crying.

“She has impeccable timing,” Jim said as he pushed himself to a sitting position.

“I know.” Trixie sat up more slowly and got to her feet. “I’ll get her and meet you downstairs.”

“Okay.”

A few minutes later, Trixie and Katje entered the kitchen. Trixie could smell the coffee brewing and saw the teakettle was on the stove heating up.

“Her food is on the table,” Jim said, turning away from the refrigerator with a dozen eggs in his hand. “Eggs okay for breakfast?”

“That’s fine,” Trixie said as she sat down at the table with Katje in her lap. She secured the bib around her daughter’s neck and began to feed her.

“So, what all needs to be done today?” Jim asked, cracking the eggs into a bowl.

“Well, we were supposed to go to the Manor House to get things set for dinner tomorrow, but we’re no longer needed.”

“Honey doesn’t want help?” Jim asked.

“She’s got help, but she said she didn’t need two invalids getting in the way.”

“Invalids?” Jim asked, pretending to be offended.

“I’ll take being called an invalid if it gets me out of doing the dishes,” Trixie said.

“You would,” Jim said with a grin. “But what do we need to do?”

“I need to finish wrapping the presents for tomorrow. Most of it is done, but there are still some I need to finish.”

“What else?”

“I promised to bring a relish tray. I have everything in the refrigerator. I just need to cut it up and set it on the platter.”

“I can help with that,” Jim said, pouring eggs into the frying pan. “There’s not much I can do with this cast on.”

“You were lucky it was a clean break,” Trixie said. “It would have really ruined Christmas if you were stuck in the hospital.”

“I think we were both lucky,” Jim admitted.

“I completely agree,” Trixie said. “Is there anything you need to do today that you need help with?”

“I think we’re okay,” Jim said. “Everything outdoors that needs to be done is. I think we’re just fine.”

“Good.”

“And here is your breakfast,” Jim said. “Eat up so we can get to work.”

“Aye, aye,” Trixie said with a grin.

After a few bites, Trixie asked, “Are we still going to join the others for the Christmas Eve service?”

“We can if you want,” Jim said.

“Are you sure you’re up for it?” Trixie questioned.

“I think you should be asking yourself that question. I’m not the one with the sore ribs.”

“It should be all right as long as I continue to take it easy.”

“The decision to go is up to you, Trix. If you don’t feel like going, I understand.”

Trixie looked at Jim and knew he was being sincere, but also knew this was important to him. She smiled at her husband. “I want to go.”

Jim smiled. “All right.”

At that moment the phone rang and Jim went to answer it. “Hello? Hi Brian.” He paused. “Yeah, we’re feeling much better.” Another pause. “We were.” A much longer pause. “That’s a great idea and we appreciate the offer. We’ll see you about six.” He paused again. “Bye.”

“So, what did my big brother want?” Trixie asked as Jim returned to the table.

“He was checking to see if we were going to the service and suggested we all go together.”

“That’s probably a good idea,” Trixie said. “I’m not really ready to get behind the wheel yet.”

“I think it’s just easier this way with our injuries,” Jim said.

The next morning, Trixie woke early. The house was quiet around her and she knew she could sleep for a while longer, but the excitement for the day wouldn’t let her go back to dreamland. She knew that while their daughter may not remember this day, she and Jim would.

Rolling onto her side, ignoring the pain that shot through her chest, she looked at Jim, who was sleeping soundly. He looked happy and knew that he was just as excited as she was.

She watched him let out a sigh and slowly begin to wake. A smile filled her face as his eyes opened and locked onto hers. He smiled in return. He said softly, “Morning.”

“Morning,” Trixie said. “Merry Christmas, Jim.”

“Merry Christmas, Trix.”

“How did you sleep?”

“All right. You?”

“I slept fine,” Trixie answered. “I’m glad we went to the service last night.”

“Me too,” Jim said, slowly sliding himself into a sitting position as they both thought about the previous evening.

The church had been beautifully decorated with a single Christmas tree in front of pews near the pulpit where the minister gave his sermon. In front of the pews on the other side was a nativity scene. Dozens of poinsettias graced the front of the church. There wasn’t an empty seat to be found.

The service had included many songs sang by the church choir and parishioners regarding the reason for the season. As the service neared the end, everyone stood and picked up their candles. The lights in the church were dimmed and the ushers began lighting the candles that were along the aisle. Each person then lit their candle from the person beside them until all were lit. Once very candle was aglow, the rest of the lights in the church were turned off and everyone sang “Silent Night” with the organist.

When the song was finished, the minister said some parting words and all the candles were blown out. The service was over.

“I’ve never been to a service quite like that before,” Trixie said.

“My mom always loved the Christmas Eve service at the church we attended in Rochester,” Jim said quietly. “It was definitely one of our family traditions.”

Trixie noticed a sad look come over his face. She knew he was missing his parents and that he always would. They had not had the chance to see what a wonderful man he had become and nothing would change that. But at least he had memories of his parents that couldn’t be taken away. Trixie knew there were some people who had no recollection of their parents and they were the ones who truly lost out.

“We can definitely make the service a tradition of ours as well,” Trixie said, moving closer to Jim. “It’s a great way to honor the past and enjoy the evening as well.”

Jim kissed the top of her head. “I love you, Trix.”

“I love you, too.”

“Are you ready to begin our Christmas?” Jim asked.

“Definitely.”

“Go get Katje and I’ll head down and get breakfast started.”

“Sounds good to me.”

A short while later, the family of three was gathered in the living room. The tree was lit up, casting a rainbow glow on the wrapped packages that were nestled beneath the pine branches.

The three of them settled on the floor, enjoying being together. They helped Katje open her gifts of clothes and toys and saw she was more interested in the wrapping paper than her gifts. She was having fun and that’s all that mattered. Once all her presents were opened and set aside, Trixie and Jim began unwrapping their gifts. They thanked one another for everything they received from clothes to music to books. It had turned out to be a great Christmas.

Later that morning they loaded up the gifts for their families into Trixie’s Jeep and they headed up to the Manor House for Christmas dinner. They were looking forward to the big meal and being with their family and friends.

When they arrived, Mart and Brian came out of the house to help them bring everything inside. Both Jim and Trixie were grateful for the help, especially after making all the trips out to the Jeep to load it up.

Everyone gathered in the living room where the large Christmas tree was positioned in front of the large picture window, piles of gifts billowing out from underneath the pine branches. Everyone included Matthew and Madeleine Wheeler, Honey and Brian and their son, Petey, Helen and Peter Belden, Mart and Di Belden and their twins, Bobby Belden, Bill Regan and Dan Mangan and Margery Trask.

Trixie, Jim and Katje settled on the floor, even though they had been offered the couch and sofa by both sets of parents.

With everyone seated, Matthew Wheeler began hading out the gifts. Piles began to accumulate in front of all the children and everyone knew the youngsters were going to make out quite well this holiday. There were also some quite generous piles in front of the adults as well.

When Matthew handed out the last gift, he looked at the children and said, “Go ahead and see what Santa Claus brought you.”

Wrapping paper and bows began flying everywhere. As soon as one package was open, they were onto the next one, squealing in delight with what they had been hoping for and actually received.

When the flying seemed to slow down, the adults began to open the gifts that had been piled in front of them. The conversation was already directed toward dinner, and interspersed with comments of thanks for the gifts they had received.

The piles were dwindling down and Trixie was enjoying being with the people she cared about most in the world.

Seeing her last gift was a large rectangular box, she pulled it toward her. Glancing at the tag, she saw it was made out to her from Madeleine. She tore the tag off and set it aside. She pulled the rest of the paper off and tossed it in the pile in the middle of the room.

Trixie lifted the lid off the box. She pushed the tissue paper back to reveal an album. She lifted the album out and stared at it. Turning back the cover, Trixie saw it was a scrapbook.

Her gaze shifted to the tag she had set aside, but it had her name on it. Trixie looked at Madeleine. “I think this is mislabeled.”

Madeleine shook her head. “It’s not mislabeled.”

Trixie glanced at Honey and saw she had opened a gift just like the one in her lap. She realized Madeleine had created two scrapbooks.

She slowly paged through the album, taking in the pictures and the little mementos that had been included as well as the captions. There were so many photos of the times that she never thought would be capture, and here they were, displayed in such detail.

Trixie caught Madeleine’s eye and said, “Thank you so much. This is absolutely wonderful.”

“Mother, this is amazing,” Honey said, her eyes never leaving the album. “I forgot some of these moments.”

“What have you got?” Jim asked, looking down at the gift on her lap.

“Your mother made me a scrapbook,” Trixie said, slowly turning the pages.

“She made this?” Jim asked.

“She did,” Trixie said as she nodded her head, her gaze never leaving the pages. “She made one for Honey too.”

“What an amazing gift,” Jim said. “I remember that time.” Jim pointed to a picture on the page she had just gotten to.

“So do I,” Trixie said, easily recalling the day she, Jim and Honey had gone riding together after Jim had arrived at the Manor House.

“I think dinner is ready,” Matthew said. “We should head to the table.”

As everyone got up to leave the living room, Trixie slowly closed the album and returned it to the box. She allowed Jim to get up first and then slowly got to her feet. Once she was standing, she saw Madeleine was standing by the couch.

When the living room had cleared out, Trixie moved to her mother-in-law and gave her a hug.

“Thank you so much for the album,” Trixie said. “It’s absolutely beautiful.”

“Are you sure?” Madeleine asked.

“Absolutely. You captured some moments that I thought I would only have in my memory. And now, they are all together in one place. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”  Madeleine took Trixie’s hand in hers and gave it a squeeze. “Come on. We should get to the table before Mart gets to it and only leaves crumbs.”

“Let’s go.”

When everyone was seated, the food was quickly passed around. As the various conversations got underway or continued from the other room, Trixie felt a smile fill her face knowing this was what Christmas was all about.

-The End-

Author’s Notes: Once again my esteemed appreciation goes to Amy for the edit. And more thanks goes to her for making my site look as good as it does. You definitely rock. 

This story is a submission for CWP 2.3 – Happy Holidays 2005 CWP and the required elements include pumpkin bread; Muzak; mislabeled gifts; Daylight Savings Time; people discussing when it’s appropriate to start listening to Christmas music; scrapbook; lipstick smudges; a blizzard or snowstorm; ice skates; trying to organize something bit (a move, a wedding, an anniversary party) coming into the holiday season, when everyone is super busy; book: “Where the Wild Things Are” (Publisher: HarperCollins; 40^th Anniv. Edition: November 9, 1988); and a carryover items from CWP 2.2, sales.

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