Candlelight Christmas

Snow fell softly outside Mia's front window on Christmas Eve. Inside, the house smelled sweet like sugar and cinnamon. Mia helped her dad roll dough for holiday cookies. Suddenly, the lights went click and the whole room went dark. The hum of the warm oven stopped completely. Mia held her dad's hand and looked out into the shadowy kitchen.

Dad smiled and struck a long match to light three tall candles. A soft yellow glow filled the room. Mia looked out the window and noticed all the street lamps were off too. A gentle knock sounded at the front door. It was their neighbor, Mr. Lopez, holding a bright camping lantern and a bag of sweet oranges. He asked if everyone was warm and safe in the cold dark.

Soon, Mrs. Gable came across the street with a thick wool blanket. She carried her wooden guitar under her arm. The neighbors all gathered in Mia's living room by the soft candlelight. Dad set a pot of sweet apple cider on a small camp stove to warm up. Everyone sat close together on the big rug to stay cozy.