The Christmas spirit was felt everywhere: in stores blasting peppy holiday songs, vendors selling lucky charms and other items, houses decorated with wreaths and Christmas trees, and light snow coating the roofs and streets.
"Merry Christmas, Uncle Aaron!"
Aaron looked behind him and suddenly there were arms wrapped around his middle, gaze going below to see his niece hugging him with such ferocity it knocked the breath out of him.
His arms automatically hugged back, eyes going upward and widening once he saw his cousin Bryan and his wife walking toward him.
"Ohh Bryan and Melinda," he greeted warmly as soon as Donna relinquished the hug. "Merry Christmas to you and your family."
He went over to hug his cousin and briefly envelop Melinda in a hug before letting go and smiling at them warmly.
