from the floor of the party

up above children run and laugh finding entertainment in each other 
and scattering toys behind as they go. 

*

balloons bounce from person to person gently finding a resting spot until the next game of 'don't let it touch the floor.'
*

 ice rattles in drinking glasses and paper dinner plates crackle in the wood stove.
*

a song is sung, a gift unwrapped, and frosting is eagerly licked from candle bottoms.
*

and in it all a child is treasured and celebrated,
 another year passed and many more to come.