The Helpers

Oh, the beautiful lights. I love Christmastime when colorful lights illuminate the usually darkened streets. But this year, the arthritis had left me unable to decorate outside my home, so I had to call in backup decorators in the form of my son and grandson. They helped me physically and understood my preferences, knowing exactly how I like things, how many strands of lights I wind around the treetops and trunks, every shrub, and the candy canes that line the walkway.

I watched from the window as they moved in tandem, from one flowerbed to the next, candy canes lining the walkway. I was excited for when dusk settled in, and I could click the buttons on the remote control and head outside to watch my house come alive. Being the thoughtful mother I am, I made sure I had hot chocolate ready for my two favorite men when they finished their tasks.

"Grab your coat, Nana, and let's go out and see how it looks," Sam said.

I clapped my hands together, eager to see which colors adorned the weeping cherry tree and the Japanese maple. Of all the shrubbery, they were my favorites, and I always played around with the colors on them at Christmas.

We headed through the garage and outside as the sun dipped low in the sky. Standing on the sidewalk, I pressed the remote, and the lights burst to life.

"Umm, whose idea was this?" I asked, pointing to the red and white solar globes beneath the weeping cherry tree.

Sam smiled, "Dad's."

I shook my head. From Sam, I'd understand, but Jake should've had the presence of mind to know better.

"You know they're solar, right?" I asked.


Written For: "Daily Flash Fiction Challenge" 
WC:288