Jay Doiron's Blog

Story

Home for the Holidays (Expanded Version)

The first snowflakes of December drifted gently over Maple Lane, painting the little houses in soft white. Every window glowed with golden light, and the air carried the scent of pine and cinnamon. In the smallest house, nestled beneath the tallest spruce tree, lived the Thompson family—Mom, Dad, little Lucy, and Charlie the dog.

Lucy’s cheeks glowed as she pressed her nose against the frosty window. She watched cars drive past, each one packed with suitcases, gifts, and eager faces. It was almost Christmas, and everyone was coming home. But this year, Lucy’s big brother, Ben, was far away at college. The house felt quieter, and even Charlie seemed to notice the missing laughter.

The Countdown Begins

Mom filled the house with warmth, baking Ben’s favorite gingerbread cookies and brewing spiced cider. Dad strung extra lights on the porch, hoping Ben would see the glow from far away. Lucy made a paper chain to count down the days until Christmas, adding a new link each morning and tearing one off every night.

Sometimes, Lucy would sit beside the fireplace and listen to Dad’s stories about when he was a boy. He talked about sledding down the big hill behind the house, and how his brothers would race to see who could build the tallest snowman. Lucy loved these stories, but she wished Ben was there to hear them too.

At school, Lucy’s friends talked excitedly about their holiday plans. “My grandma is coming from Florida!” said Mia. “We’re going sledding with our cousins!” exclaimed Jack. Lucy smiled but felt a little tug in her heart. She missed Ben’s pranks, his guitar playing, and his gentle teasing.

A Letter to Ben

One chilly afternoon, Lucy sat at her desk and wrote a letter to Ben. She described the snow, the cookies, and Charlie’s silly antics. She ended with, “I hope you come home soon. Christmas isn’t the same without you.”

Mom helped her mail the letter, and together they watched the mail truck drive away, carrying Lucy’s hopes with it.

The Night Before Christmas

On Christmas Eve, the house was alive with anticipation. The tree sparkled, stockings hung by the fire, and the kitchen smelled of cinnamon and cloves. Dad read “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” while Lucy and Charlie curled up under a blanket.

Lucy left her note on Ben’s pillow: “Hurry home. We miss you.”

As she drifted off to sleep, snow fell softly outside, blanketing the world in quiet.

A Surprise Arrival

On Christmas morning, Lucy woke to the sound of car tires crunching on snow. She dashed to the window. There, in the driveway, stood Ben with a huge grin and a suitcase full of wrapped gifts. He was home!

The whole family rushed outside, laughter echoing through the frosty air. Charlie leapt into Ben’s arms, barking with joy. Mom wiped happy tears from her cheeks, and Dad clapped Ben on the back.

Ben handed Lucy a small, carefully wrapped box. Inside was a snow globe, with a tiny house under a spruce tree and golden lights shining in the windows. “Now you’ll always have a piece of home with you,” he said.

Together Again

The family gathered by the tree, sharing stories, singing carols, and savoring gingerbread cookies. Lucy played Ben’s favorite holiday songs on the piano while Ben strummed his guitar. Even Charlie joined in with a howl or two.

Later, neighbors stopped by to share cocoa and laughter. The house felt warmer, brighter, and brimming with love.

As the day ended, Lucy realized the best gift wasn’t under the tree—it was having everyone together. Home was more than a place; it was the people she loved.

No matter where you go, or how far you travel, home is always waiting, especially for the holidays.

Characters

The Thompson Family

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Relationship Summary:

• Ben and Lucy share a close sibling bond, and both are beloved by Mom and Dad.
• Mom and Dad work together to create a loving home environment.
• Charlie, the dog, is a member of the family and adds warmth and humor.
• Mia and Jack provide Lucy with friendship and a sense of community, highlighting the anticipation and joy of the holiday season.

Audio

Lyric

(Verse 1)
Turkey with gravy, yeah, the table’s set tonight
Dark moist turkey meat, everything just right
Stuffing breaded golden, cranberry on the side
Green beans shining, mashed potatoes piled high

(Pre-Chorus)
Apple pies in the oven, butter melting slow
Egg nog in my glass, let the good times flow

(Chorus)
Home for the holidays, love on every plate
Family gathered ‘round, feeling oh so great
Turkey with gravy, stuffing, mashed potato dreams
Green beans and laughter, cranberry streams

(Bridge)
Rich butter on the top, melting in the light
Egg nog cheers, everything’s all right
Pass me a slice of pie, let’s make this night our song
We’re home for the holidays, where we all belong

(Outro)
Turkey with gravy, love served every way
Home for the holidays, let’s savor every day