My Short Short for the Day

After a short time the sleigh landed gently on a snow-capped roof. Just before Santa turned around, Eddie nudged Lou and they quietly slipped out of the bag and rushed behind the sleigh. They held their breath as Santa picked up his bag and climbed out of the sleigh. With a twinkle in his eye he slipped down the chimney and out of sight.

“I can’t believe Santa didn’t catch us.” Lou said peering around the edge of the sleigh. “It was really smart of you to think of wearing outfits that look like presents.”

“Well one of us has to have some brains or our lives would be pretty dull.” Eddie replied motioning Lou.

“Gee, you’re the smartest elf in the whole north pole!” Lou said grinning from ear to ear. “What are you doing, Eddie?”

“We’re going down there.” Eddie smiled as he leaned over the edge of the chimney opening.

“How?” Lou asked looking over the edge.

“Jump, of course.” Eddie replied.

“But won’t that hurt?” Lou asked.

“Santa has been doing it for years and he’s still laughing.” Eddie replied climbing up onto the edge.

“Yeah, I guess you’re right.” Lou shrugged.

“Okay, you go first and I’ll be right behind you.” Eddie patted Lou's shoulder.

“Okay.” Lou said as he jumped feet first into the chimney. Lou landed on the floor with a bump but before he could stand up something landed on top of him.“Ouch!”

Eddie stood up with a grin and brushed himself off. “See, that wasn’t so bad.”

“It would have been better if you hadn’t landed on me.” Lou said rubbing his back.

“Shhh! There’s the kitchen through that doorway.” Eddie said pointing. “See?”

Lou’s eyes lit up at the sight of the plate heaped high with Christmas cookies. “I get the red one.” He said in a loud whisper.

“Okay but be still. Hm? Now where did Santa go?” Eddie asked scanning the room.

“Maybe he’s in the bathroom.” Lou said eyes wide with innocence.

“No, Santa doesn’t go to the bathroom.” Eddie replied. “Oh, there he is on the other side of the tree. Be very quiet and follow me.”

“Okay Eddie.” Lou said.

“Shhh!” Eddie said putting his finger to his lips.