Plans for the Holidays

Even though the calendar said winter was approaching, Regina had a hard time believing it. The few trees that changed color had done so and dropped their leaves, but many of the trees were evergreens and Regina found she missed seeing the hills of home ablaze with orange, gold and flame. And autumn leaves had their own smell -- something she tried to explain to Elena and received a puzzled look in return.

Her Pappy had written, giving her permission to spend Christmas with Elena's family. It was good news but had also made Regina sad. She missed Pappy, missed their small cabin, and the life she'd left behind. And she had no idea when she'd be able to see Pappy again. Certainly not for Christmas.

On their next excursion into town with Elena's Abuela and brothers, Regina made up her mind that she was going to find a present for her Pappy even though he'd specifically told her not to waste her money on an old man who had everything he needed. Pappy was the only family she had left and she was going to buy him a present for Christmas no matter what he said. He was too far away to do anything to stop her anyway.