Genealogist's Christmas Eve ('Twas the Night Before Christmas) 'Twas the night before Christmas When all through the house Not a creature was stirring, Not even my spouse. The dining room table with clutter was spread With pedigree charts and letters which said... "Too bad that the data for which you last wrote Sank in a storm on an ill-fated boat." Stacks of old copies of bills, wills, and such Were proof that my work had become way too much. Our children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugarplums danced in their heads. And I at my table was ready to drop From work on my album with photos to crop. Christmas was here, and such was my lot That presents and goodies and toys I'd forgot. Had I not been so busy with grandparents' wills, I'd not have forgotten to shop for such thrills; While others bought gifts to bring good Christmas cheers, I'd spent time researching those birthdates and years. While I was thus musing about my sad plight, A noise on the lawn gave me such a great fright! Away to the window I flew in a flash, Tore open the drapes and yanked up the sash. When what with my wondering eyes should appear, But an overstuffed sleigh and with eight small reindeer. Up to the house top the reindeer they flew, With a sleigh full of toys and ol' Santa Claus, too. And then in a twinkle, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each tiny hoof. As I drew in my head, and bumped into the sash, Down the cold chimney fell Santa - KER-RASH! "Dear" Santa had come from the roof in a wreck, Tracking soot on the carpet, (could've wrung his short neck)! Spotting my face, ol' Santa could see Christmas spirit was lacking in little ol' me. He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work And filled all the stockings, (I felt like a jerk). Here then was Santa, who'd brought us such joy, When I'd been too busy for even one toy. He spied my research on the table all spread; "A genealogist!" He cried! (My face was all red)! "Tonight I've met many like you," Santa grinned, As he pulled from his sack a large book he had penned. I gazed with amazement; the cover, it read Genealogy Lines for Which You Have Pled. "I know what it's like to have Rooter's Bug," He said as he gave me a great Santa hug. "While the elves make the sleighful of toys I now carry, I do some research in the North Pole Library! So these special treats I am able to bring To genealogy folk who can't find a thing." "Now off you go to your bed for a rest, I'll clean the house from this genealogy mess." As I climbed up the stairs full of gladness and glee, I looked back at Santa who'd brought much to me. While settling in bed, I heard Santa's clear whistle To his team, which then rose like the down of a thistle. And I heard him exclaim as he flew out of sight, "Family history is Fun! Merry Christmas! Goodnight!" - Author Unknown Modified by Terri Lamb