Hello everyone. Sorry for the delay on this chapter. I've been working more than I expected to, as well as helping friends continue with clean-up events around the St Petersburg community. Life continues returning to normal at St Pete Beach. The community grows stronger together each day and I continue to appreciate all of the can-do spirit that I'm seeing in the area. It is uplifting to me, and reminds me to keep fighting the good fight even though I feel our nation is heading into some dark days ahead. Thanks to everyone for your continued notes of support and special wishes.
I continue to rewrite, add to and write more chapters of this story and I'm seeking any suggestions, constructive or positive feedback you have about the story. Please send information to cjwilson328@aol.com. For those if you who have already reached out to me - my thanks! I'm working your ideas into future storylines.
It's Christmas day at the condominium complex. Everyone is in a chipper mood, and a surprise is in store for CJ's circle of influence.
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Christmas morning at 401 Gulfview Condominium. I woke up with a smile on my face and cannot wait to get the morning started. I relieved myself then went to the kitchen and started to brew a pot of coffee. It was close to 6:00 am, and I decided to wake up my man with a sensual blow job from his secret Santa.
I went back into the bedroom, slipped myself under the sheet and went at my man's cock with full force this morning. Wally rolled onto his back, pulled the sheet off of us and said "Merry Christmas my love. Oh God CJ, keep it up baby, you are making me feel incredible this morning."
I continued on and Wally had me swing around so that we ended up in a 69 position this morning. I am really getting into sucking him off this morning, and his mouth on my dick is taking me to that special place he and I often visit together. Wally stopped taking my cock in his mouth and said "sweetheart, let's finish this in the shower. I forgot to tell you that when Mama B says she'll be here at 8:00, she's notoriously early and will be here at 7:00." I took his cock out of my mouth, licked the head a few more times and said "okay babe, let's go finish this off with our first official Christmas shower together."
Wally locked the bedroom door before we entered the shower just in case Mama B, UD or Jimmy decide to surprise us with a "Merry Christmas greeting" before we're ready for them this morning. We entered the shower, and let nature take its course between us. Soon, he had me moaning and writhing around the shower in glorious pleasure. He picked me up and said "wrap your legs around me baby". Once I had done this, he backed me up to the shower wall continued on with his passionate kisses all over me. It did not take long for his cock to start bouncing around my ass entrance. I stopped the kisses with him, looked him straight in his eyes and said "take me Santa, and make me yours today."
That is all he needed to hear, as he began to slowly thrust his cock into me gently. Once he knew he had me opened up, his thrusting became more forceful, and my moaning went from a low-growling sound to a high-pitched squealing sound. I gave him several more kisses, and whispered into his ear "that's it my love. Take me to Santa's wonderland this morning."
Before I knew it, Wally had me bouncing against the shower wall in sheer ecstasy. He's in his zone, and making me feel wonderful in the process. I grabbed onto Wally harder and said "that's it baby. Give me the ultimate Christmas gift this morning." He's driving me wild and I could not control myself any longer. I looked into his eyes and said "I'm going to shoot baby. Give it to me Wally."
I leaned my head back, and started spraying my load all over the two of us and against the shower wall. My body started convulsing and soon I felt my man shooting his big load inside my ass. He kissed me even harder as he continued to shoot stream after stream of his man juice into my well-lubed hole.
Wally moved us to the shower bench, and sat down on it with his cock still in my ass. He began kissing me again, eventually looked into my eyes and said "Merry Christmas my love. You have made me so happy this year, and I look forward to this Christmas day and many more with you by my side. I love you CJ." I put my hands on the sides of his face, gave him some more kisses, looked him in his eyes and replied "I love you more Wally. Merry Christmas my love. It's our first Christmas together, which I'm going to treasure forever. I pray that each Christmas we're together brings us more joy and love throughout the years."
We washed ourselves off, shaved, brushed our teeth and picked out our outfits for the day. I went with a green polo with a pair of white shorts. Wally chose his red polo, along with white shorts. Once we had both dressed, he smiled at me and said "there, UD can't call us twins today but he will give us crap for trying to impersonate two elves!"
We made our way to the kitchen and found Alex and Ronny enjoying a cup of coffee at the breakfast bar. I looked at the two of them and said "Merry Christmas" to them at the top of my lungs. They both stood up off the barstools, and the four of us exchanged our Christmas morning hugs. Alex said "we were not sure what time to expect guests invading our condo this morning. Ronny and I got up at 4:00, made some Christmas morning love, and he helped me do the morning work at the pool and activity center. We have the center all ready to go, the Christmas tree lights are on and someone can use the three large ovens there if needed today." I smiled at Alex and said "I forgot about those large ovens. Those might be a better option for UD to use, and we can let Mama B occupy every oven she needs to in the complex."
It wasn't even 7:00 am when we had our first knock at the door. Ronny answered the door to find UD and Denny with Santa caps on. They both yelled "Merry Christmas" at him, and proceeded into the kitchen. After another round of hugs, UD spoke up and said "Denny and I just finished up a last-minute trip to the RaceTrac down the street. I needed more butter and aluminum foil for my cooking this morning, and luckily, they had both in stock for me." I honestly forgot that Denny is with us. Ever since he has arrived, he's been trailing UD just like a puppy dog. The two of them are so cute together, and I can tell that UD loves having him around. I hope they get enough alone time over the holiday to celebrate the season together in their own special way.
It wasn't even five minutes later when we had our second knock of the morning on the door. UD opened the door to find Mama Bette with her Christmas hat on as well. She had a sheet cake box in her arms and said "UD, Merry Christmas you sexy man! Don't just stand there, help me with these muffins!" UD retrieved the box from Mama and sat it on the breakfast counter. He went back to her, gave her a hug and said "Merry Christmas you beautiful woman! It's so good to see you, and I can't wait to taste all of your special creations today." Mama went around the room, giving us all a hug and peck on the cheek. She then announced "okay everyone, I have four dozen mixed muffins for everyone, including my tropical dump muffins for anyone who wants a quick breakfast. Don't let anyone underage have one of those tropical dump muffins, as I made them extra strong for UD. Let's get some coffee brewing, and CJ invite anyone who you think may be up and at it this morning." UD smiled and said "the girls should be here in just a few minutes CJ. They were showering up when Denny and I left for RaceTrac this morning."
Just as I opened the door to go and invite everyone over, Mack and Darrell were in my face, grinning ear to ear. Mack pulled me in for a hug and said "Merry Christmas. We're not sure what our schedule will be today, but we're on our way to the hospital now. Marci went into labor a couple of hours ago. Jacob just called me to say that she is progressing well, and the doctor thinks the delivery will happen this morning! I'm going to be an uncle on Christmas day!" Everyone heard Mack, and rushed the door to give him and Darrell hugs and kisses. Mama Bette followed up and said "what a blessed event -- a birth on Christmas day. Wally, get these two some coffee to go, and come on in for your Christmas morning muffins. Now you two keep us in the loop today so we can all celebrate in this Christmas miracle!"
Mama B gave them each a tropical dump muffin, along with one of her peach melba creations and a triple berry deluxe. Wally filled them up with two travel mugs of coffee, and they went off to Mack's truck. We all stood out front and waved them off on to Gulf Blvd. Mama B looked at everyone and said "now this is my idea of a beautiful Christmas. I don't even know who Marci and Jacob are, but I don't have to guess on the identity of Mack. Geez Wally, seeing you two side by side is just incredible. CJ, is Darrell the police man you have been telling me about?"
Everyone filled up a cup of coffee, along with a delicious muffin. Wally and I recapped the Darrell and Mack stories to Mama B who just hung on to each of our words. Once we had finished up, I noticed a tear streaming down her cheek. I went to her, gave her a hug and said "I'm so happy that you're here with us today. It just would not be Christmas without you." She grabbed my hands and said "I just cannot believe how lucky you all are to have found each other and share in your friendship, brotherhood and love. Now, go get the rest of your crew rounded up, and let's put a dent in these muffins!"
Ronny went downstairs to round up his parents, along with Sam and Clint. While he was doing that, I started on my rounds to reach out to the rest of our circle. Within fifteen minutes, we have a full house at our condo. UD and Bailey are in high gear this morning, making sure all of the guests feel welcome. Bailey spent quite a bit of time getting to know Ronny's, Trev's and Carl's parents. UD was busy charming Fred's parents and everyone seems to be hitting it off very well. Jimmy and my cousins are taking care of refilling beverages for everyone, and acting as the perfect hosts for our Christmas morning. I gave Toby a nudge and said "is everything going okay this morning?" He smiled at me and replied "It's going wonderful. We got up before dawn with Jimmy and he opened all of his presents. The three of us then went to get Fred's mom and dad. We're all getting along fine, and I'm pleased to know that they're accepting Fred, Jimmy and me as a family."
Wally received a text, and said "excuse me everyone. I have an update on Marci, which I want to share with everyone. This is from Mack who says Marci has been taken to the delivery room, and is doing well. Jacob is with her, while us future uncles are in the waiting room waiting on pins and needles. Talk to you soon with more updates."
The ladies in the group are so happy for Marci, and jealous! Most of them were in labor for 12 or more hours, and it sounds as though Marci will be delivering within 6 to 8 hours this morning. They all agreed to go out shopping tomorrow to pick up some gifts for the baby, once they know whether it's a boy or girl. Mack does not even know the gender, as Marci and Jacob want to surprise everyone with their bundle of joy.
I saw Jimmy and Alex looking at a pad of paper which Alex had retrieved from his junk drawer. I went over to them and said "what are you two up to?" Jimmy grinned and said "Alex started a baby pool, and I asked him if I am winning?" Alex said "Sorry CJ, I was going to get you later today. But I have to close the pool since she's in labor now." I looked at Alex, pulled out my wallet and retrieved a ten-dollar bill. I looked at Jimmy and said "what do you think Jimmy, can I still get in on this pool?" My young friend smiled at both of us and said "come Alex, let CJ in! She has not had the baby yet. So, he can still get in." The chief agreed with my young friend, and I even pushed my selection out until early tomorrow morning. Jimmy smiled at both of us and said "if I win, I'm going to take the money and buy lots of presents for the baby. Do you think Marci and Jacob will like that guys?" I picked Jimmy up, and we both gave him a kiss on the cheeks. Alex said "they'll love that, Jimmy. If you do win, CJ and I will take you shopping this week." He looked at both of us and said "thanks guys. We're going to make this baby into a Taylor Swift fan really quick. I have lots of gift ideas for the baby."
UD took all of the meats to the recreation center and began his morning cooking. Denny joined him, and the girls asked if he needed any more help? He replied "nah, Denny and I have this under control. Stop on down when you feel like it. Mama B, you have all the kitchens in the complex if you need them!" She looked at UD and said "okay Dean, I think I may end up using three this morning."
Like Bailey, I'm enjoying meeting up with all of the parents in the group this morning. I'm so pleased to see Ronny's parents enjoying themselves as they mingle with the other new entrants into our circle. I made my way over to Ronny and said "so far, everything appears to be going great for Roger and Elinor." Ronny smiled at me, pulled me in for a hug and replied "yeah CJ, it's been a wonderful 24 hours for us. They want to see me on tv this week, if I can make it happen and we're also going to see Charlie tomorrow as they want to buy me a couple of suits for work. It's so great to be with them, and I cannot thank UD enough for making this happen. He told me I could be pissed at him and he'd understand. I don't think I'll ever be mad at him though. He's a special guy CJ, and you can be so thankful to have him in your life."
The morning continued on, and more people started arriving for the holiday gathering. I went down to the center to see how UD and Denny are doing. I found a nice crowd have gathered in the center to keep UD and Denny company as the delicious smells began to envelope all corners of the center. Bill brought the keg into the center, and iced it down for all to enjoy. UD, Denny, Zeke, Jer and Bill tapped it just after 10:00 am. I cracked up when I heard UD say "hell, it's noon someplace guys! Merry Christmas to all!"
Angela arrived with a large crock pot filled with scalloped potatoes. She found one of the many available electrical outlets, which had been strategically placed near the kitchen by the chief. I went up to her and said "Merry Christmas my friend" as I gave her a hug and kiss. She replied "Merry Christmas CJ, and thank you so much for the invite today." I commented on her beautiful dress and said "however it needs a nice accent piece." I went over to one of the trees and retrieved the necklace I purchased for her. She opened the box, looked at me and gave me another hug. She said "you shouldn't have, but thank you so much. I knew when I saw this beautiful necklace, I wanted it to compliment my wardrobe. I was disappointed when it had sold before I could pick it up, and I did not even think about you purchasing it as a gift for me. Thank you so much CJ. Now will you help me with the clasp?"
More people continued to enter the recreation center. Jimmy is being the perfect host, and greeting everyone with a Merry Christmas as they come in. People are enjoying themselves, and beginning to nibble away at some of the appetizers present. Alex has plenty of tables set up inside, and it's a beautiful day outside. The high temperature is going to reach into the low 80's today, so a number of people are enjoying the outside area around the pool.
I stepped back outside to mingle with some people. I found Ronny's parents sitting at a table near the pool with Ronny joining them. I went over to the three of them and said "may I join you three for a few minutes?" Ronny's mom, Elinor, replied "please CJ, sit down for a while so that we can catch up with you. This is such a beautiful day, and Roger and I want to take as much sunshine as we can this week." Ronny's dad chimed in and said "I checked in at home this morning CJ, and my sister informed me that a clipper storm came through Indiana and Ohio overnight. They woke up to twenty degrees this morning, and three inches of fresh snow. I always enjoy a white Christmas, but I have to admit I can get use to 80 degrees and sunny skies. You and Ronny hit the jackpot by securing television jobs here in St Petersburg. How are you enjoying your work CJ?"
The four of us talked for thirty minutes. As I shared more highlights with Roger and Elinor, Ronny and I made promises of showing them all of our video highlights since we both started. His parents also requested that if we can schedule it, they'd love to see us on a newscast together. I looked at Ronny and said "how about we shoot for Friday evening? Since it's casual Friday, we won't have to dress up and we can show all of our video highlights between the six and eleven shows to them? We can also order some carry out food, and eat at the station." Ronny smiled at me and said "that sounds great CJ. You contact Daniel tomorrow, and I'll contact Paul to see if we can fill in for them. I'm sure once UD and your cousins hear about this, they'll want to join us also. Does this sound okay to you mom and dad?" Ronny's parents are both overjoyed with the idea and thanked us in advance for giving them a special Christmas present.
As I finished up my conversation with Ronny and his parents, Randy showed up with the families who are being helped out at the Pinellas Partners in Action. Randy made introductions of the families to us, and Ronny introduced everyone to his parents. One child stepped forward and shook Ronny's and my hands. He turned to Randy and said "Mr. Oster, you were not kidding us when you said we will meet some television stars today. This is so neat, and can I get your autographs today Ronny and CJ, when you have some time?"
We chatted with the young man and the other families for quite a while. I said "everyone, it is so wonderful that you can enjoy Christmas day with us. Besides Ronny and myself, you will also see several other television personalities from WPHS. We welcome all of you today, and please help yourself to anything you want from the vast selection of food inside of the recreation center today. There are beverages, appetizers, side dishes and sweets inside for all of us today. My uncle is finishing up cooking the meats for all of us, and soon we'll have everything ready for a wonderful feast that we can all enjoy today. Merry Christmas everyone, and please let us know if we can do anything for you today."
All of the families thanked us, and proceeded into the recreation center to mingle and get something to drink. Jimmy and Scott greeted all of them, and they made fast friends with the children in the new group of visitors. It turns out that Jimmy and Scott know several of the children from school. They welcomed their class mates, and soon youthful laughter is filling the recreation center for all to enjoy.
I heard someone calling my name and saw Jan approaching me from the parking lot. I went to her, gave her a hug and said "Merry Christmas my friend! It's so good to see you today, and where is your husband at today?" Jan smiled and said "Merry Christmas to you CJ. He's with the car. The parking lot is full, and I need some help in unloading what I brought? He and I will find a parking spot across the street in the complex overflow area." Ronny, his parents and I went to Jan's car. She introduced all of us to her husband Earl and said "CJ, I hope you don't mind but I made two sheet cakes instead of one. Fred and Jimmy were in on Saturday to get some doughnuts. Jimmy told me that there will be 175 people here, so I decided we may need two sheet cakes. I hope you don't mind?" I smiled at Jan and said "that's fine Jan, and thank you for all of the deserts. I've been telling people that you're bringing your delicious pastries, and everyone wants to eat your dessert first before filling up on entrees!" We all had a good laugh, and began unloading their car.
While we were unloading Jan's car, Jennifer, Josh and their parents appeared in the parking lot. I smiled at all of them and said "Merry Christmas everyone! Follow us, and we'll lead you to the recreation center."
As we approached the recreation center, I thought to myself "I should have asked Jimmy to do a head count for me versus greeting people. I think we have more than 175 now, but have no idea! Ah well, everyone appears to be having a wonderful time and it's time to check in on UD to make sure the meats are ready to go soon. My muffin from Mama B is not holding me, and I'm ready to chow down on some ham with all the usual Christmas fixings."
As I approached the kitchen, I found UD and Mama B carving ham, turkey and all the other meats that UD had fixed. UD smiled at me and said "okay CJ, we're ready for everyone to start enjoying a meal together. Why don't you make an announcement to everyone, and perhaps you can find someone to lead us all in a prayer today?" I smiled at UD and said "I'm on it UD, and I know the perfect person to lead us today in a prayer."
I tracked down Bailey, who is visiting with Jennifer, Josh and their parents. I excused myself to everyone and said "I hope you are all hungry, because the chefs have informed me that we're ready to go. Bailey, will you help me kick things off and lead us in a prayer?" Bailey smiled at me and said "absolutely my friend, let's do this!"
Bailey and I captured everyone's attention. I made opening comments, gave thanks to everyone for the contributions to today's celebration and extended a special thank you to UD for coming up with this idea and allowing all of us to join together in celebration, joy and love today. Bailey took over for me and lead us all in a Christmas prayer which was well received by everyone in attendance. After the prayer, I invited everyone to enjoy in a feast and help themselves to anything they desire today.
Gradually, everyone made it through the food selections. People sat down at tables inside and outside of the recreation center. All of the tables appear to have pleasant conversation being exchanged, as well as laughter and joy being shared. Eventually, I saw many people going back for second portions and digging into the wonderful desserts.
I think I went through the food selections at least six times. I took small portions, and sat down at new tables to spread myself around the group. It's such and enjoyable day and I'm loving the diversity of the group we have in attendance. Who ever said you cannot mix construction workers, television personalities, families in need and a group of gay friends together? Everyone is enjoying themselves, and once again UD has succeeded in making a holiday meal into a fun and festive event.
On my final walkthrough to eat some of the desserts, I ran into UD who is also filling up on the desserts. I looked at him and said "sorry I did not sit down with you yet. I'm trying to mingle with everyone today. Everything you cooked is absolutely delicious, and look at the group we've assembled here today UD. I am so proud to be part of this, and it's all due to your suggestion for this gathering." He took a look around the center, smiled and said "yeah CJ, this is wonderful and it's made my Christmas wish come true today. There is so much love, joy and spirit in this room today. I love it, and God has answered my Christmas wish today. I love you CJ, and thanks for making the blessed event happen today for all of us to enjoy." We both sat our plates down and gave each other a hug.
Wally noticed us hugging and came over to us. He smiled at us and said "okay you two, let me in to enjoy the hug with you both! UD, this is turning out to be such a nice day, and we owe it all to you. I cannot wait to get you down here permanently so that we can make every day feel like a holiday. I love you both and cannot wait to ring in our first new year together. Merry Christmas to my Skinner men! I love both of you so much, and wish us all the happiness and love we can have together moving forward."
After I broke away from UD and Wally, I made my way over to Jennifer, Josh and their parents. I remembered Josh's parents from the Maumee television auctions, but this is my first time to meet Jennifer's parents. Both of them gave me a hug and we started talking about the morning news team, and the coverage of hurricane Vince. All four of the parents are excited to get the chance to see Jennifer and Josh live this week on the morning and noon newscasts.
After I broke away from Jennifer, Josh and their parents, I made my way over to the keg. Fred and Toby were pouring themselves a beer, and I joined them in having my first beer for the day. Fred looked at me and said "can you believe how well this is turning out today, CJ? I cannot believe how well everyone is mingling today, and my parents are enjoying themselves tremendously." Toby joined in and said "we should consider doing this every Christmas. I've heard so many people commenting on how nice this is versus being alone on this joyous holiday." I smiled at both of them and said "what a wonderful idea, Toby. I think we should make this an annual tradition moving forward."
I looked over to one of the Christmas trees and noticed Jimmy and Scott gathering up a number of small boxes. I smiled and said "what's your little guy up to?" Fred laughed and said "Scott and him have been working together each night this past week. They wanted everyone here today to have a small Christmas gift. Toby and I went to a craft store twice for them this week. They decided to make a friendship bracelet for everyone here with red and green beads, along with some Christmas beads we found for them. It's nothing big, but I hope everyone enjoys them." I smiled and said "I can't believe those two made 175 bracelets this week! That's incredible, and I know everyone will be touched by their gesture guys. You can be very proud of them for adding a special touch to make everyone's Christmas a memorable event today. Just think, they'll have 175 new friends here today and they can write to Taylor Swift and tell her all about it! Maybe they'll get tickets to her concert tour next year when she comes to Tampa." Toby smiled and said "oh Fred, let's help them write the letter and take some pictures of people wearing their bracelets today. I hear that Taylor loves these kind of friendship messages, and she does give out free tickets to her concerts. Jimmy and Scott will be so excited when we tell them about the idea."
I went over to Jimmy and Scott before they started passing out their gifts. I looked at them, kneeled down to their level and said "what you two are about to do is absolutely wonderful! You're going to make everyone happy today, and soon you two will have 175 new friends through the bracelets you have made. Let's get some pictures of you two passing out your gifts. I'll send the pictures to Taylor Swift, and I'll nominate you two for Taylor's friends of the year. Maybe she will send you two tickets to her concert next year in Tampa." They both smiled at me and Jimmy said "we just want everyone here to have a fun memory of today. It's been a great day CJ, and I know everyone is enjoying it just as much as Scott and I are." I gave them each a big hug, and they started going around to the tables giving each person a small gift box with a bow on it. As people started opening them, Jimmy and Scott received hugs and plenty of "thank you" comments. It's so nice to see people immediately putting their new bracelet on and telling Jimmy and Scott that they're friends for life with both of them.
As I continued watching Jimmy and Scott pass out the gifts to people, I noticed Randy and Bailey taking envelopes off another tree. I joined them and asked "okay, are you two up to something also?" Bailey smiled at me and said "I asked Randy what the families in need might enjoy as a pick me up gift for today. He suggested gift cards to grocery stores, as well as gift cards to toy stores for the kids." I smiled at both of them and said "what a special touch you two. I wish I would have known about this, and I would have chipped in as well." Bailey looked at me and said "you have donated to this today my young Muskie! It's been such a good year for me, largely due to your influence. I took my sweeps bonus, and bought all of the gift cards to present to the families. Thank you for coming into my life and giving me such a renewed purpose. Merry Christmas my friend! Let's go together and pass these cards out now. Randy, please remind us of who all we need to give these cards to."
Bailey, Randy and I took some time to talk to each family as we passed out the gift cards to them. Everyone was so pleased with the gifts, and thanked us multiple times for what we've done.
The afternoon continued on with everyone piecing on more food, and the majority of kids ended up going swimming. Jorge joined in with the youngsters and my cousins. I went up to Cecilia as she was watching all of the activity from a table by the pool. I joined her and her husband and said "are you two enjoying the day?" Cecilia replied and said "ah Senor CJ, this has been such a beautiful day and the weather is so gorgeous. Thank you and your group for putting on such a wonderful day for everyone. It's been such a pleasure to meet everyone, and I'm anticipating a crowd influx this week at the restaurant. It seems as though everyone in St Petersburg has the week off and are looking for places to eat. I'm so glad we are all enjoying this day together, and it has been so relaxing for us." I looked at the pool and said "Jorge looks like he's enjoying time with my cousins today." Cecilia snickered and replied "ah CJ, he's infatuated with both Maddie and Josie. When I told him that they were both going to be here all week, he requested all week off from the restaurant so that he can enjoy the pool with both of them. He's girl crazy CJ, and who knows maybe he'll end up with one of them in the future. Do you mind if he does come over this week to enjoy the pool? I'll bet he will even take them shopping if they want to go?" I smiled and replied "pool time, shopping and having a handsome young man escort them around this week, they will be in heaven and Jorge is welcome any day he wants to come over."
I enjoyed my time with Cecilia and her husband. Each of us enjoyed a cold beer as we soaked up the beautiful sunshine. More people began to assemble around the pool continuing to enjoy the celebration.
Around 3:30 pm, Mack entered the pool area holding Darrell's hand. They both had huge smiles on their faces. A number of people noticed them, and immediately began surrounding them in the pool area with one question in mind.
Wally went up to Mack and said "do you have good news, and do you want to share it with everyone here?" Mack looked at him, gave him a hug and said "wonderful news my brother, and let's gather everyone for a Christmas miracle announcement. Wally spread the word inside of the recreation center for everyone to gather outside for the most important announcement of the day.
Wally, Mack and Darrell stood up on an elevated flower bed in front of the recreation center. Wally started in with "well everyone, it's time for a Christmas miracle announcement. I'm going to turn the announcement over to my brother Mack Simmons and his partner Darrell Fullinger now."
Mack took over and said "good afternoon, and I apologize to everyone that Darrell and I are so late to this Christmas day event. As many of you know, I'm a new resident to the St Petersburg community. I moved up here from Marco Island to be closer to my brother Jacob and his wife Marci who are expecting their first baby this week! It's been such a whirlwind for me as I've also discovered my brother Wally that I never knew about until we met in October. Even though Marci and Jacob were due on December 28th, their blessed bundles of joy came into the world this morning."
Alex looked at me, and I looked at him. He said "did Mack just say bundles?"
Mack and Darrell noticed several of our group members with puzzled looks on our faces. Darrell took over and said "that's right Alex, he did say bundles as Marci delivered twins this morning at 10:04 and 10:07!" Mack continued on and said "they decided to keep their announcement as a secret to everyone so that we're all surprised. I'm proud to announce that Alexander Ethan Simmons was the first delivered and his sister Abagail Elizabeth Simmons followed three minutes later. Mom, Dad and the twins are all doing fine. Marci is exhausted as the babies weighed in at 7 pounds 5 ounces for Alexander, and 7 pounds 2 ounces for Abagail Elizabeth. Both of the twins have a full head of blond hair on them, and they're both 20 inches long. The doctor wants to keep Marci and the twins in the hospital for today and tomorrow, but they all should be home on Wednesday to begin their family adventure. Darrell and I have plenty of pictures we want to share with all of you. Merry Christmas everyone, and Happy Birthday to my nephew Alexander and niece Abagail!"
Everyone erupted in cheers and applause for Mack and Darrell. As they stepped off the flower bed wall, the crowd rushed them with hugs and everyone wanting to see the pictures of the twins.
For the rest of the afternoon, there was a new buzz going around the recreation center. Mack and Darrell eventually sat down at a table to enjoy a plate of food. People made lines to sit with them and view the pictures. It was so good to see the two of them enjoying telling everyone about the twins, Marci and Jacob. I looked at Darrell, and I have to say it's the happiest I've seen him in several weeks. I can envision the two new uncles baby sitting for the first time next year. Maybe this will be an additional trigger for Darrell to escape from the darkness that has been absorbing him and enjoy the bright new adventures of Jacob, Marci and their beautiful children.
I made my way to Mack first and sat with him to see his set of pictures. He showed me probably 20 pictures before he got to one of Darrell with the twins in his arms. I smiled and said "Uncle Darrell with Abby and Alex. What a beautiful sight!" Mack turned to me and said "yeah CJ, it sure is. I wish you all could have been there with us to enjoy the celebration. However, I have to say today will be such a favorite memory for the two of us to grow old with." That did it for me, as my water works took off and I quickly grabbed a napkin to wipe my tears away.
I went to Darrell next, and viewed his pictures which were pretty much the same shots of what Mack showed me. Darrell had a similar picture of Mack and the twins in each of his arms. I looked at my dear friend and said "how are you feeling today?" He gabbed my hand, put his arm around my shoulder and said "I'm so happy that Mack had me join him in the glorious celebration today. Most of all, I'm so appreciative for you and several other special people in my life, for getting me to this point. I feel as though today is a new beginning for me, and I've decided to make a change in my work assignments. Don't worry my friend, it's all good and I'll share the highlights with you during the week. For now, let me just say I love you CJ and thank you for shaking me up and reminding me that there is so much more life to be living for me and Mack. You've been a blessing in my life, and I look forward to all of the special times that you, I and our circle will enjoy. God Bless you CJ!"
Suddenly, Darrell and I were interrupted by Jimmy. He wrapped his arms around Darrell's neck, gave him a kiss and a big hug. He looked at Darrell's face and said "congratulations Uncle Darrell! I love you, and I'll help you and Uncle Mack to babysit the twins any time you want me to. I won the baby pool that Alex started, so you, Mack and I need to go shopping for the babies soon when we can." Jimmy went to Mack next, and repeated the same performance on him. Darrell smiled at me and said "I know that Alex and Abby will hold a special place in my heart. However, Jimmy is always going to be my favorite for so many reasons." I smiled at Darrell and said "me too my friend. Okay, let me get moving so more people can enjoy these special pictures with you."
I scanned around the room, and noticed Mama B and Bill consoling UD. I walked over to them to make sure UD is okay.
As I got close to the three, all three were shedding tears. I said "what's wrong everyone and how can I help you three?" They all looked at me and UD said "Sorry CJ, I was recalling the birth of you and my three girls with Mama and Bill. Don't worry, it's good tears of fond memories. I shared my memories with my two dear friends here, and before I knew it, we all shared some tears of joy together. Does that accurately describe this scene Mama and Bill?" Both of them began laughing and Mama said "it sure does UD. Don't worry CJ, we're all sharing tears of happiness together."
The day continues on, and I'm surprised that no one is leaving yet. Several of the ladies are planning a big shopping spree for the twins tomorrow; Jorge, Maddie and Josie are planning their week out; UD is planning out the afternoon happy hours with Ronny's father; and there are so many discussions of this event becoming an annual tradition at the condominium complex. In a strange way, it feels as though my circle of friends has grown tremendously today, and I'll be happy to host Christmas here every year.
What a beautiful day, and I don't see it ending soon. Everyone is jovial, and sharing in the new traditions of friendship, love and mutual respect for each other. I'm ready to see these emotions continue all of this week into the new year. It's going to be hard for me to beat 2023 as my favorite year. However, I'm looking forward to starting 2024 with all of my family and friends around me. Who knows, each year moving forward may top the year before.
As I look around at all of the people, all I can say is "my cup is filled today with love. The skies are sunny, and my long-range forecast is looking bright for all involved. I cannot wait to start the new year, and enjoy all of the adventures that it will bring for me and my circle of influence. Merry Christmas to all, and let's keep this upbeat environment going as long as we can."