T'was two weeks before Christmas,

And she hesitates to grouse,

But not a creature was stirring

To help Mom clean the house.

The stockings were hung,

But just on the wall,

Because in this rented townhouse

There's no fireplace at all.

The tree lights are up,

And the outside lights too,

Mom did it herself,

The assistants were few.

She also did the shopping,

And with every bag through the door,

Daddy's blood pressure

Rose a little bit more.

The wish lists are long,

And a little bit funny,

Cause even the Rockefellers

Don't have that much money!

The gifts are almost wrapped,

They all should be, but

The last one she wrapped

Gave her a paper cut.

She would trade in her children

For some happy, helpful elves,

'Cause all those Christmas cookies

Aren't going to make themselves.

She's pressed the dress clothing

Of course they'll complain,

You'd think wearing a tie

Causes physical pain!

She's ready to quit,

To just walk out the door,

Why does she do it?

Who is this for?

Does anyone notice

The candles and lights?

Does anyone care

About her late nights?

The constant battle

Is taking it's toll

Do they really deserve presents?

Or should they get coal?

A calming deep breath

And red wine in a glass,

Bring back memories of childhood

And Christmases past.

Memories of lights and cookies

And presents and more,

Of Santa and carols

And candy gallor!

Of dinner and singing

And a pretty new dress,

Of every Christmas seeming...

Effortless.

But behind the curtain,

Pulling the strings,

Is every mother (and father)

Hiding in the wings.

And that's why she does it,

She remembered the reason,

She goes a little crazy

Each holiday season.

So the children will be happy,

Their faces alight,

Their memories are filled

With Christmas delight!

And in years to come,

When they feel the holiday wear,

They'll find this in

An archive somewhere.

And see that it's worth it,

It's worth all the time

And the effort involved,

They're doing just fine.

And like every parent before them,

They'll do it up right,

And fall exhausted

Into bed that night.

But, you'll hear us all whisper,

As we turn out the light,

"Merry Christmas to all,

And to all a good night!"