The Christmas Joy Ride Read Online Free PDF

he’s not here physically,” Joy said, “but I suspect he’s right here.” Joy tapped her chest. “My George is still here for me.”
    Madge nodded. “Yes, that’s true.”
    â€œAnd the purpose of an anniversary is to honor the day you and Ralph were wed, right?”
    â€œYes . . . that’s right.”
    â€œSo why not celebrate? Just because Ralph isn’t physically with you now shouldn’t erase any of the magic you experienced seventy years ago, should it?”
    Madge’s lips curved into a smile. “That’s true.”
    â€œNow, tell me about that day,” Joy insisted.
    Joy listened intently as Madge described a small family wedding that took place just as World War II was winding down. Ralph had been on leave from the navy during the two weeks prior to Christmas. “I wore a dress of creamy white satin that my mother and aunt sewed up for me in just a couple of days.” She described how the bodice and sleeves were fitted and sleek. “And the skirt had such a nice swirl to it.” She sighed.
    After about thirty minutes of reminiscing, Joy invited Madge to come see the Christmas decorations and Madge gladly agreed. As they got closer, Madge could hear the music drifting down the hallway. “Is that Dean Martin?” she asked.
    â€œIt is.” Joy linked her arm in Madge’s.
    Madge made a happy sigh. “Now that takes me back.”
    Joy led Madge around, showing her the various decorations and explaining some of the meanings behind them. “I wish I could stay longer,” she said wistfully. “But we need to get settled before it gets dark.” She pointed to the window. “So we’ll have to move on.”
    Madge reached out her arms, gathering Joy in a long, heartfelt hug. “God bless you, Joy. I think the angels must’ve sent you here today.”
    Joy touched Madge’s cheek. “Maybe Ralph asked them to do that.”
    Madge laughed. “Yes, I’m sure you’re right. That would be just like him.”
    â€œHave a happy anniversary this week,” Joy told her. “And have a merry Christmas too!”
    Joy found Miranda taking photos with her phone. “I thought I could post them on your website,” she explained. “I’ve got my laptop, and I can do it this evening.”
    â€œOh, that would be delightful!” Joy clapped her hands. “See why I needed you to come with me on this trip?” They told LaShanda and a few others goodbye, then quietly exited the now bustling Mansfield Manor. As they hurried out to the RV, Joy felt a tear slide down her cheek. But it wasn’t a sad tear. It was a tear of pure joy. Christmas joy.

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    M iranda offered to drive to the RV park, but Joy simply waved her hand. “Not this time,” she said. “Just navigate us there with your PGS device.”
    Miranda didn’t bother correcting Joy over the GPS. It was enough that the old woman could safely drive after such a long day. It was getting dusky when they pulled up to the RV park office. Like Joy’s motor home, the little office was lit up with strings of brightly colored lights. “I got you down for space 33,” the manager told Joy as he peered curiously at her in the driver’s seat. Maybe, like Miranda, he wasn’t sure about an elderly woman driving a big motor home. “Need any help getting set up?”
    â€œI’d love your help,” Joy told him. “This is our first day outand it’s been awhile since I’ve hooked up the water and electric by myself.”
    â€œI’ll meet you down there in a few minutes.” His eyes lit up. “By the way, I like how you got your rig decorated. Real festive and fun.”
    â€œWe’re on a Christmas Joy Ride.” Joy chuckled.
    He laughed. “Sounds like fun.”
    â€œYour office looks festive too,” Joy called out the open window as the RV