Open Writing

Christmas shopping makes me think
Of aching arms and swollen feet,
Of shopping bags weighed down with things,
Waiting for buses, praying for a seat.

The money never went far enough
For all the goodies you wanted to get,
But you managed to get something for everyone -
Even for Great Aunt Annette.

I usually bought books for the men in my life,
Husband, brothers, nephews and father.
Something quite funny always fitted the bill;
Giles or Milligan always prompted the laughter.

Sisters and Mum were easy to choose for -
Just buy them things fluffy or smelly.
But trying to think of something for Gran,
Was that easy? Not on your Nelly.

Once all was bought came the wrapping,
Which proved much harder than it looks.
It usually took me best part of a week
‘Cos I wanted to read all the books.

When all the presents are stacked round the tree
You can gaze at them all without fear,
Except that you know that before very long
You’ll be doing it again for next year.