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!"