Hearthside On Christmas Eve

I can think of no better contentment that can be had,
Lounging in my robe and slippers comfortably clad,
Than relaxing by the hearth in my favorite chair,
Gazing at the dancing flames, ah, nothing can compare!

A winter storm rages outside piling up drifts of crystal snow.
I checked the thermometer and it read twenty degrees below!
But what care I as we settle in for an evening of respite,
Sipping Berringers White Zinfandel on this Holy winter's night!

We reminisce about the past and things for which we aspire,
Dreamily watching the glowing embers of the dying fire.
With music softly playing and the lights turned down low,
I light my pipe, savoring the aroma and its mellow glow!

I make room for dear old Simba as he curls up on my lap,
Purring contentedly and taking his usual evening nap.
My spouse prepares a bowl of piping hot popcorn for a treat.
I couldn't ask for anything more to make the evening complete!

In the autumn of my life, such simple times I truly treasure.
With my love by my side, I'm satisfied beyond all measure!
The grandfather clock measures time in its inexorable way.
Oh, that time would stand still that I could forever relish this day!

Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired
© All Rights Reserved

Placed No. 2 in Linda-Marie's "Holiday Hearth" Contest - November 2011
Copyright © | Year Posted 2011


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Date: 11/20/2011 12:29:00 PM
Hi Bob~Your poem describes the perfect night in rhyme. The only thing u left out is a great Harrison Ford movie. ha ha. I see u have Simba on your lap, pipe in mouth, and piping hot popcorn...in the Autumn of your life with your love at your side...ahhhh! Purrrrrfect! Congrats on this win! Gwendolen
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Date: 11/18/2011 6:30:00 AM
Congratulations on your win in Linda-Marie's "Holiday Hearth" contest Bob. Love, Carol
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Date: 11/16/2011 7:26:00 PM
You make me want to sit by the fireside, with a contented kitty curled on my lap. This has the comfortable feel of what I enjoy the most about Christmas! Congratulations Bob!
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Date: 11/16/2011 6:43:00 PM
Congratulations on this wonderful win in the contest of Linda, Bob
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Date: 11/16/2011 6:18:00 PM
And I hope the clock hands slow down for you too Robert. This was delighrtful. Congratulations. Love, Joyce
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Date: 11/16/2011 5:23:00 PM
Congrats Bob on second place with this wonderful entry and theme ...thankxx for supporting me luv..
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Date: 11/6/2011 9:32:00 AM
Your poem has humor as well as a calming effect on the reader. I like thinking of you with Simba on your lap and the fire embers glowing as soft music plays inside. Delightful entry for the contest, my friend. As long as you have memories, tim does (in a way) stand still. Love, Carolyn
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Date: 11/5/2011 10:01:00 PM
Yes,if we could but make time stand still, and eating popcorn not getting fat on it!! Good one!
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Date: 11/5/2011 7:39:00 AM
* “A Warm Bowl of Buttered Popcorn Would Have Been Perfect for This Wonderful Write * My Dear Precious Robert * Tis Been Nice to Set Aside The Firesplace Within Your Lovely Poetic Moment * Simply Beautiful * Luv Always * Sarah.” *
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Date: 11/4/2011 7:11:00 PM
A day to remember of loved ones so dear, by a warm glowing ember, drinking some cheer. I almost feel part of the warmth Bob! :)
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Date: 11/4/2011 2:20:00 PM
We just ordered new furniture for our fireplace room. I have a great chair coming and it might make it by Christmas. Thanks Bob. Tony
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