'Twas the night before Christmas and in the Valley of Vail,
Not a computer was on – no facebook, twitter or email.
The skis, boots, and poles were all hung in the garage.
The area spas were all dark -- so no more massage.
Bennett was nestled all snug in his crib.
He knew not of Christmas, which made him feel glib.
Karah in her flannel and I in my boxer-brief,
Had put our heads on our pillows and felt the relief.
When out on Eagle-Vail Golf Course I heard a loud racket.
It had to startle everyone (wealthy, middle class, & ski bums) -- no matter their tax bracket.
Away to the cul-du-sac I ran in a hurry.
I saw a red light in the distance, but it was quite blurry.
I went back in the house and put my son in the bjorn.
I could not go check out this epic event without my firstborn.
Karah decided that she should come with.
She’d often thought this Claus story was simply a myth.
We arrived at the 1st hole, and what did we see?
A 9 harnessed deer tangled around a pine tree.
The red nose of Rudolf, helped us to survey the scene
There was a big problem that no one could’ve foreseen.
Many long nights at the North Pole lead to Christmas Day.
The big jolly guy must have fallen asleep at the sleigh.
I asked, “What happened, Santa? Do you need more caffeine?”
He said, “I just wrecked the ride I’ve been driving since I was 16.”
“I’m getting quite old and it’s time to retire.
I’ve tried to sell this delivery business, but I can’t find a buyer.
I’d prefer to not leave the house at all when it is snowing.
But, it is little kids like your son there that keep me going.”
I handed Bennett to Mr. Claus so we could get him on his way.
Karah and I untangled the reindeer and uprighted his sleigh.
Bennett played with his white beard and made Santa laugh.
Santa said, “I saw you on Halloween. You made a cute giraffe.”
Bennett and Santa had become fast friends.
Karah and I finished picking up the toys and his odd and ends.
I looked over and inquired, “Santa, are you okay to fly?”
He was running late – that’s what I was trying to imply.
He chuckled, “I feel great. Thank you for responding!
Bennett and I have just been doing some bonding.
I’ve seen him when he’s sleeping, I know when he’s awake.
I know that he’s a good boy. Raising him must be a piece of cake!”
Karah and I grinned and he handed our son back.
The reindeer were getting antsy and the night was still pitch black.
Everyone was ready – Donner, Vixen and Dasher --
5 other deer I cannot name and Rudy with his nasal flasher.
Santa said, “How am I to thank you? You are too nice!”
Karah responded, “We’re happy to help. A small gift for Bennett would suffice.”
Santa reached in to his bag and looked for just the right gift.
He really took his time -- his actions were not swift.
He looked up at our son. Bennett got excited and smiled.
But, it seemed as though he had nothing for our little child.
Santa looked embarrassed as he stated, “I must leave.”
I guess it is better to give than to receive.
We watched as this odd crew took off into the night.
Deer and a sleigh are just not synonymous with flight.
We walked back to our warm house at 106 Deer Run.
We’d not forget this strange night or what we had done.
We opened the door . . . But, what the heck is this?
It was a front room full of snow-covered Christmas gifts.
I grabbed and read a note to see if this was all a trick.
The card just read, “Love - your new friend, St. Nick!”
I doubt Bennett will remember what happened on this night.
How we happened upon the wreckage and helped Santa with his plight.
When I tell him the story in the future, if it seems like it’s unclear,
I’ll say, “It is the magic of Christmas. It happens every year.”
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