It was now time for the Keaton’s to throw their wishes into the fireplace. Each family member picked up their box and found a place to sit down in front of the chimney.
Cassie felt a little weird about this, but she was going to behave and play along with the family.
Justin opened his box first. He held up one of his wishes and turned toward his wife.
“Marion, yet again, we are blessed. Not only for the wonderful days we’ve shared throughout this year, but for your patience and love with our family, as well as agreeing to have Cassie to come live with us.”
He had a speech for each person in the house, then turned and threw the fragile papers into the fire. They burst into different colors, as smoke swirled up the chimney.
When it was Geri’s turn, she wished Cassie to be happy in Parkerville and asked Chris to stop teasing her so much. She gave her father and mother a hug and a kiss, then threw her wishes into the fire.
Chris had a big smile on his face, as he threw his wishes into the fire. “I’m not going to tell you what I wished for all of you, since I want everyone to be surprised when wonderful things come your way.”
“Wow, Chris, how can I top that?” Cassie said, then she felt her eyes tearing up and knew her face was bright red. “Gosh, this is all new to me.”
Marion handed her a tissue. “It’s okay, Cassie, you’re not the only one here holding back our tears.”
Cassie took a big breath and continued. “I can’t say how happy I am here and know you all care about me . . .” was all she could say, as she threw her wished into the fireplace.
The family enjoyed some eggnog and a delicious cake made with almonds, oranges, and a hidden lucky coin. Of course, Geri always finds the golden coin and they all watched the funny clips on the TV. Fortunately, no one was caught doing anything too embarrassing.
“Well,” Justin spoke up. “It’s getting late, but we do have an hour to contemplate the end of this wonderful year. You are all dismissed to enjoy the last hours of 1965, but please make sure you all are here by 11:45. We have something special ready for this New Year’s Eve.”