The family had settled down on that fateful Christmas Eve.

Mom and Dad were drifting off and the children gone to dream.

Suddenly the dog was barking and the cats began to yowl.

Dad jumped out of bed.

He hit his head and he began to howl.

He quickly ran down stairs and unthinking threw open the door

to yell at the cats and the dog;

to settle things down once more.

To his surprise he saw a black and white striper, in shock,

who sprayed the door...and the wall...and dad,

then trotted on down the block.

In pain and anguish, dad ran upstairs, then mom began to shout.

The kids woke up and they all screamed, “Dad, you have got to get out!”

The rankness wafted through the hall.

Poor dad went in to shower; but, even with soap and water,

there was no cleansing power.

The odor clung ferociously to dismay of all about.

Daddy went to sleep on the couch since the stink would not come out.

The kids huddled in bed with mom who lit candles to mask the smell.

No one slept much that terrible night, the Christmas Eve from hell.

As Christmas day dawned cold and clear, the scent cast a darkened pall.

Mom used vinegar and tomato juice on dad and the kitchen wall.

The odor seemed diminished.

Bright laughter was found once more.

Gifts were opened, turkey roasted, Guests came knocking at the door.

As soon as they walked in the room, their smiles faded away.

Everyone in the family knew what foul stench still held sway.

The feast was eaten.

The guests were kind; but, didn’t stay too long.