"Sooo..." I said swaying on the heels of my feet, "I know we had a bunch of fun doing those fake presents in order to make that PSA, but what did you get me for Christmas, Brain?"

Brain sipped his drink. "That."

"Huh?"

"I gave you laughter, adventure, action, and a bit of mystery. I gave you the gift of mayhem."

I sniffled and wiped away a tear. "You know me so well." I tried hard not to cry.

Brain coughed a bit. "So what did you get me?"

"Plutonium," I sipped my drink, "and a super dense alloy forced from the heart of a black hole."

Brain gave me a quick bro-hug then released me. "You are such a dear friend."

Danny stepped between us. "OK, enough of this mushy stuff!...Let's party!"

"All right!" I said. "Give me a beat!"

WHACK!!

"I said 'give me a beat,'" I rubbed my cheek, "not 'beat me up!'"

Brian and Danny chuckled.

Bandit, the dog, took to the drums. Danny headed for the guitar. Brain got behind the keyboard. Sally picked up a device that could become a cello, violin, trumpet, flute, or saxophone depending on the need. I got behind the mic.

We began to play.

"It's Christmas time, put your hands in the air.

Time for presents, time for food to share.

We don't care the holiday mood,

Be it Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, or Humbug.

(Group)

Now's the time for peace on Earth,

Goodwill toward Men.

Now's the time to show the world,

Your heart's light. (End group)

Snowball fights and candy canes

Sugarplums and colored lights

None of these compare to the gift of love

You bring this night.

(Group)

Now's the time for peace on Earth,

Goodwill toward Men.

Now's the time to show the world,

Your heart's light. (End group)

Though volunteering's al'right,

Don't leave your family in the cold

Be bold,

Smile at all who cross your sight.

(Group)

Now's the time for peace on Earth,

Goodwill toward Men.

Now's the time to show the world,

Your heart's light."