Hommel Mangas
It’s four nights before Christmas and snow is on the way,
We finished our gift and grocery shopping, just this very day.
They’re predicting 4-7 inches — “be prepared,” the weathermen advised!
So, we stocked up on 12 varieties of ice cream — all pint-sized.
The Wednesday traffic on 135 was horrific, but we’re finally back home,
I can see southbound I-69 traffic crawling, as I scribble this little poem.
Happy winter solstice, the shortest day of the year!
It’s also the longest night — depends which you prefer to cheer.
A great horned owl is hooting, from our tulip poplar tree,
Marking his territory with his, “hoo-h’HOO-hoo-hoo” plea.
From the lights of a passing car, I spot two bucks grazing in the field.
Their eyes glowed just for a moment, their dining spot revealed.
I’ve never seen Dasher, nor Dancer, nor Prancer nor Vixen,
I’ve seen a Comet but never Cupid, nor Dunder and never Blixem.
But yet, two weeks ago Sunday, we had our first bobcat sighting,
In my own Johnson County backyard — it was all quite exciting.
In preparation for the snow, our last conifers were planted,
I even put out mealworms – the bluebirds were enchanted.
And now with Christmas arriving, it could be merry white with sleds,
I wonder what my daughters are now doing before heading to their beds.
Aly’s in Cincinnati, making sure there’s music and skaters on the rink,
Lighting Christmas trees, rappelling Santas, the city celebrating in sync.
Chloe is nursing 8-month old John, reading and potty-training him like a pro,
And caring for her patients — all with that new-mom glow.
Phoebe is painting trim in the first home they just acquired,
Toured with Maverick City and now recording music that’s fully inspired.
Steve has one huge full day of patients, before his Christmas break
And tonight we prayed God’s praises, will and guidance before we awake.
It’s now midnight and this column needs an edit and rewrite,
but, Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.
Janet Hommel Mangas grew up on the east side of Greenwood. The Center Grove area resident and her husband are the parents of three daughters. Send comments to [email protected].
