Chapter 7
December 20, 1851
It's the seventh day of Christmas, and what did Barnum see, but seven hours of shopping...
Phillip Carlyle had been through a lot since running away to join the circus. He had survived a deadly fire, countless incidents involving fireworks and untamed animals (and occasionally both at once), and a terrifying chat with W.D. when he went to ask for Anne's hand in marriage.
Still, this was grueling nonetheless.
How many stores can they possibly visit? He wondered disconsolately. When the Barnums had suggested that the entire circus 'family' go Christmas shopping that morning, he had agreed readily. But the hadn't thought that they would still be at it over six hours later! P.T. spotted him taking a load off near a festive holiday stand and went to join him.
"I'm guessing this is your first Christmas shopping experience," he said, chuckling. Phillip shook his head in bemusement.
"Where do they even get the energy? And," he added, "Why on earth do they need to do this much shopping?"
"Well," P.T. began gently, "You know, for Anne and Lettie and some of the others, this is the first time any of them have had real money to buy Christmas gifts. Or even the first time any of them have had people to buy Christmas gifts for." Phillip blanched, and he felt his cheeks burn with shame. Being raised in privilege the way he had, he had never needed to worry about being able to afford anything, least of all Christmas gifts. "Oh, hey," P.T. nudged him playfully with his knee, "Don't feel too bad. I'm no saint, myself. I was complaining the same way before Charity set me straight. Reminded me about the way I acted when I first came into some money, when I got the circus started." P.T. said ruefully. Phillip relaxed, and P.T. grinned. "Look on the bright side, Phil. You're getting off easy!" The younger man raised an eyebrow.
"How's that?"
P.T. nodded towards Anne, Charity, and his girls, who were now walking toward them laden with dozens of shopping bags.
"You only have one lady to carry bags for. I've got three!
...six snow angels,
FIVE WOODEN SLEDS!
Four painted zebras,
three new daring acts,
two dancing daughters,
and a beautiful Christmas tree!
Question of the day: Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, always kicks off the holiday season for my family. Do you subject yourself to that madness? My answer is: yes, but only because, when my aunt, uncle and cousin come in for Thanksgiving, they go shopping, so if I want to spend time with them I also go shopping. :D