Did something new this year and tried my hands at a poem for the holidays. As always honest reviews and constructive criticisms are welcome and appreciated.

Disclaimer: I don't own the Loud House and make no profit of any kind from this story.

How the Grouse Saved Christmas.

Twas the eve before Christmas when tragedy struck.

The Loud House was damaged; hit by a truck.

The family had been out caroling on the street.

Their good moods destroyed when that sight they did meet.

All thirteen stood in shock, their jaws hanging low.

How this had happened was what they wanted to know.

An officer approached, seeing the family's distress.

He had the answers that would explain this big mess.

The driver who crashed had enjoyed too many beers.

And what he said next only worsened the Louds' fears.

"I'm sorry to say this so close to Christmas day.

But you folks can't go home. Is there someplace else you can stay?"

"I'm afraid not." Lynn Sr. said with tears in his eyes.

"Christmas is ruined!" The twins wailed, their siblings joining their cries.

The children lamented, their cries filling the night.

But then their next door neighbor came into their sight.

"Quit your crying, Louds!" Barked old Mr. Grouse.

"For the time being, you can stay at my house!"

At the sound of those words the Louds all went silent and still.

Then they suddenly swarmed him with hugs and praise for his good will.

"Okay, that's enough!" Grouse said. "I said stop it, ya hear?!

The truth is I owe ya for Christmas last year."

He led the thirteen to his front door and let them inside.

The huge group rushed in with joy they couldn't hide.

But the inside of the house wasn't what they expected.

There were no decorations at all. They felt quite dejected.

"Sorry." Grouse said. "I know it doesn't fit the season.

I just haven't felt like decorating. I know it's not a good reason."

"But don't you mind that." he said. "Trust me, you'll see.

Christmas is still Christmas, even without gifts or a tree."

The old timer brought out movies and an old VCR.

It intrigued the children, this device so bizarre.

Once all was ready, Grouse grabbed a tape to pop in.

"Lets get some snacks and then let the festivities begin!"

Soon the first movie ended and the kids selected another.

The adults stepped out, leaving the ten girls with their brother.

"You're such a good neighbor." said Rita. "We can't thank you enough."

"It's the least I can do." Grouse replied. "You folks have it rough."

They looked over next door, at the part that was now destroyed.

To see it again made Mr. Grouse feel sick and annoyed.

When the truck driver had gone and crashed through their walls

It ruined the tree, crushed their gifts and undecked the halls.

"Just look at that mess!" Grouse said. "It makes me so mad!

I hope he gets what he deserves, that insolent cad!"

"I don't disagree." said Lynn Sr. "But what good will it do?

Being angry at some stranger won't make the house look like new."

Grouse sighed. "You've got a fair point. Now's no time to pout.

Let's think about dinner. You feel like ordering out?"

The evening went on and a feast was brought to the door.

One of pizza pies, garlic knots and fried wings galore.

They sat down together and played games while they ate.

All the fun they had helped them forget the cruel act of fate.

The games kept them up through most of the night.

Until the time came to tuck the little ones in tight.

And on Christmas morning, the parents felt quite relieved.

Their kids were still smiling and laughing, with not one gift received.

For the true spirit of Christmas brings joy year after year.

So long as you have loved ones to fill your heart with good cheer.