Tradition

By Guest Writer Avery Dreger

Warmth and cinnamon wafted through the air
A rush before the holidays
The hum of jazz
Swirled around
In the warm glow of the kitchen
we baked
Cookies
And desserts
Piled them high on the glazed granite counter
Gifts for family
Preparation for parties
Baked with love
A caramelized pecan pie
For my grandma
Peppermint salted pretzel bark
To give to the neighbors
With a card
Like always
Flour sprinkled on the table
A spoon dipped in frosting
Everyone comes together
Excitement for Christmas Day
Cooked cranberries rested on the stove
There is a lightness in knowing
that despite all
you are back
once again
in the comfortable routine of tradition
Something magical about the way
Our cheeks hurt from smiling
Ribs sore from laughter
Minds content