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When I was about fourteen, my friends and I caught the bus to take us downtown. At that time, downtown was the shopping mecca. The streets bustled with people and cars. I grew up knowing how exciting downtown was and couldn’t wait to goAfter a quick ride, we hit the streets.

This and that exhibited in the storefront windows caught our eyes, but what I remember most was seeing a sign which read “Prop Sale.” We went inside.

The props for sale were from a major department store, mostly display decorations. I spied a large wreath. Intrigued, I checked the sales tag and found it a very affordable $5.00 and wasn’t worn out at all. I just KNEW my mom would love it. Passing inspection, I handed over my precious dollars.

Sadly, I had to carry the darn thing everywhere. And because it was oversized, the wreath was awkward to tote around, too. But I persisted, even when we ate at a diner.

Later in the afternoon, we took the bus home. My mom picked me up and noticed the big box. She asked what was inside, and I said, “I thought you might like this for our front door. Merry Christmas!”

Mom opened the box. She was pleased and surprised. For many, many years, she displayed the wreath on the door.

I honestly can’t remember much about it except for the greenery, a bow, and the super size. If Mom didn’t like it, she never said a word. She kept using it until it became very tatty, ultimately sending it to the trash. And that’s okay because nothing lasts forever.

Do you have something special you like to decorate with at Christmas?

In between your hustle and bustle, find a special spot and curl up with these holiday stories:

Love blossoms in the small town of Sommerville in these heartwarming holiday tales, filled with fun and forever possibilities.

The Great Fruitcake Bake-off: When a five-time baking champion teams up with her new neighbor for The Great Fruitcake Bake-off, they discover baking a prize-winning entry is complicated, bad guys are plotting to take the crown, and first prize isn’t just about a ribbon.

Christmas Romeo: When two feuding co-workers win Christmas river cruises at the company holiday party, they discover each other isn’t so bad after all.

Twinkle Lights: When the owner of a Christmas tree stand has a heart attack, a do-gooder and a reformed high school delinquent-turned-lawyer meet the challenges of running the establishment; yet, when revenue goes missing, fingers are pointed.

Find the fun at:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JQN19L6/

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1125179

Funny, sweet, and quirky, Vicki Batman’s stories are full of her hallmark humor and romance and will delight all readers. She has sold many romantic comedy works to magazines, several publishers, and most recently, three humorous romantic mysteries. Along the way, she has picked up awards and bestsellers. Avid Jazzerciser. Handbag lover. Mahjong player. Yoga practitioner. Movie fan. Book devourer. Chocaholic. Best Mom ever. And adores Handsome Hubby.

Website & Newsletter: http://vickibatman.blogspot.com/p/more-about-me.html/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Vicki-Batman-sassy-writer-133506590074451/ 

Author Central: https://www.amazon.com/author/vickibatman/   

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/vicki-batman/