Christmas At The Big House

“A photographer from The South Alabamian is coming over to take our picture for the newspaper,” I said excitedly to Amy and Connie. “We won first place in the Women’s Club decorating contest!”

"Now, y'all just act like you are tying that bow," said the photographer. We did as we were told.

We had loaded up in Amy’s dad’s truck a few days before and drove just across the river to get our Christmas trees. We got three tall trees and headed back to the big house.

“Time to get to work!” Connie ordered. Amy and I always let her think she was in charge. After helping Amy and Connie get their trees set up in their stands, I began on mine.

With one huge tree downstairs, and one upstairs above it, the Victorian turret appeared to have one giant tree that extended two stories. Miles of handmade live cedar garland surrounded the endless porch, making everything smell like the holiday season. Live wreaths accented the doors while candles flickered in hurricane globes stationed around the porch railing.

The old Victorian home had come to life.

And we won. First place.

A wonderful Christmas memory with my friends.

From the mind of me.