Hi all, I'm not even sure if this will make it in time. Talk about last minute! This is my entry for Susanna Hill's 10th Annual Holiday contest. Here's the link to find the rules and other story entries.
https://susannahill.com/2020/12/07/ho-ho-ho-the-10th-annual-holiday-contest-is-here/
A LITTLE LIKE ALWAYS
by MaryAnn Cortez
Jimmy had big plans for George’s visit. Ice skating on the
pond, building a snowman, and of course, their annual marshmallow eating
contest.
He knocked on the door.
A pair of eyes peered at him through a slit in the drapes.
“Mrs. Garcia? It’s me, Jimmy. Is George here?”
The drapes opened. “Hi Jimmy,” Mrs. Garcia said. “I can’t
come to the door, with the sickness going around I should keep my distance.
George isn’t coming this year.”
Not coming? Who would put up the lights and set up the nativity
scene? George always came at Christmas. His dad always hung the outside lights while
Mrs. Garcia baked cookies and made tamales.
“Okay.” Jimmy waved goodbye.
“Merry Christmas.” Mrs. Garcia called after him.
“Mom, George isn’t coming, and his grandma doesn’t have
anyone to help her for Christmas.”
“That’s sad,” Mom said.
“Do you think we could do it? Dad could hang the lights and
I can help set up the nativity.”
“That’s a great idea. I’ll call Mrs. Garcia and set it up.”
“Maybe the other neighbors could help too.” Jimmy said.
“Remember, we shouldn’t gather in big groups right now.”
“We can do it at different times, in family groups. Mom, can
you post it on the neighborhood app.?”
“Another great idea,” Mom said.
By that weekend Mrs. Garcia’s house twinkled with Christmas
cheer. Jimmy got to facetime with George. It wasn’t the same as being with his
friend, but it was still a little like always.