To All A Good Night

A cacophony
Of voices and registers:
The last-minute rush.

Strict obligation,
Resented but carried out:
Gifts bought – time for fun.

Joyful excitement
Imagining their faces:
Can I buy them more?

Anticipation
Builds as the night approaches:
Santa is coming!

Slowly crowds disperse
To homes, trees, and family:
Christmas Eve at last.