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Writer's picturePaula F. Hill

You shouldn't have!


The door opened to a loudish floral-print mumu, or at least that's the first thing I saw. Then her grinning full lips, googly eyes behind black rimmed glasses. and a face came into view, that immediately put me at ease. She held a puppy chin and cautious smile. Her outstretched arms that held the door waggled a bit, and sandaled feet were the foundation of the thick ankles somewhere down below.

"You shouldn't have spent your money, dear, I don't need anything!"

"If I had known it was pj day, I would have worn mine as well. They are so much more comfortable!" I exclaimed.

The happiest of faces told me, "The apartment is so airtight, I cannot get any relief from the heat. I have the AC on and this is the most comfortable thing."

"Of course," I replied, "you should wear whatever you want, a bikini, if that makes you happy!"

Her gift was the smallest of the three I delievered. Home Instead gathered Senior Santas and purchased what the recipient requested. Obviously, she was humble and unobtrusive in her life, not wanting to be a bother. I slipped in a quotable book atop her simple present.

She was hesitant to receive a hug but I told her it was orders from Santa.

Off I went, to drop off the other, more substantial gifts.

I shut the heavy door, relieved of the warm interior.

"Happy Christmas!"


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