Percy and Jake: Home for the Holidays
We begin things around early fall, just weeks before Christmas. We make our way to a two-story home in the city-like forest, which our main hero, Percy Pancoon, and his ragtag team of friends have called home their entire lives. Inside that home, Percy and his friends Jake, William, and Marshall were eagerly making preparations for Christmas, one of their favorite holidays of the year. At this point, they have pretty much gotten some of the hard stuff out of the way, and moved on to the more moderate parts, like mailing out Christmas cards.
Percy: “Have we taken care of those cards yet?”
William: “Yep, just about. Sent some to my parents and siblings, now I’m about to take some over to a few friends of mine.”
Percy: “Nice. I have a few more I need to get out myself, like to my uncle. But other than that, I’ve pretty much taken care of everything on my list.”
Marshall: “Yep, same here.”
Jake: “Same with me. It’s been a while since I’ve been back here on a full-time basis, so I’m hopeful my first holidays back home won’t be a huge problem.”
William: “Hey, let’s hope out. We can understand you being gone for extended periods of time can be a pain, but it’s glad that you’re finally able to be back home and spend time with family and friends.”
Jake: “Yeah. I suppose you’re right.”
Percy: “Look, it’s been hard not having you here, especially during some of our most fun days. Yeah, we talk now and then, but having you back here has really put a special feeling to it.”
Marshall: “Of course. We miss you around here, even though you live on the other side. It just doesn’t feel the same.”
Percy: “It really doesn’t.”
William: “Yeah, and the fact that you have to hear the stories instead of actually witnessing it firsthand, it can hurt sometimes. But just know that we still think of you every single time.”
Jake: “Awww, thanks guys. This job can be stressful at times, but hopefully I’ll have a lot more time to hang out with you guys, especially now.”
Marshall: “Yeah, we love having you back here. It not only means the world to us, but it also means you’ll be able to witness some of our most silliest adventures.”
Jake: “You are right. I do enjoy our time together.”
Percy: “And hopefully the holidays will be even better with you and everyone else here to celebrate.”
William: “Exactly.”
Jake: “Yeah. It will be. That’s nice to know.”
Percy: “That’s music to my ears.”
Jake: “Yep. Anyways, I need to get the rest of these cards out. I should be back sometime tonight.”
Marshall: “That’s good. We’ll be here when you do.”
Jake: “Ok then. Have fun.”
Percy: “Same to you.”
In that moment, Jake heads out the door, preparing to make yet another mail haul. Standing outside for a brief moment, he looked up at the sky and imagined everything that was bound to head his way this holiday season, like family get togethers, extended time with friends, and making his way through different neighborhoods spreading Christmas joy. For context, Jake was usually away making deliveries during the holidays, but more recently, he was among a select few delivery dragons who would stationed back home, therefore giving him the chance to not only stay put, but also spend more time with family and friends. This was something that he had hoped for awhile, and he was all but excited when he and a few of his friends were selected for this wonderful opportunity.
Jake: [sighs] “It sure feels nice to be back home. I’ve got so much time to make up for.”
And with that, Jake was off. Meanwhile, back at the house, Percy and his other friends were still setting things up, when all of a sudden, Percy receives a call from one of his best friends: a quirky, energetic, and funny Chihuahua named Caramel.
Percy: “Hey, buddy. What’s up?”
Caramel: “Nothing much. Just out shopping for stuff. What about y’all?”
Percy: “Pretty much the same. Just sending out cards. Jake had to do some deliveries real quick.”
Caramel: “Hey, that’s good. We’re still set for that little get together tonight?”
Percy: “Oh, you know it. We’ve got all that stuff taken care of as well.”
Caramel: “Oh, that’s good. Can’t wait to see what y’all have put together.”
Percy: “Neither can we. Alright, see you in a bit.”
Caramel: “Same to you. [giggles] Tell the others I said hi.”
Percy: “Sure will.” [hangs up]
William: “Was that Caramel?”
Percy: “Yep. He’s doing some shopping himself.”
William: “That’s good. Can’t wait for him to see everything else we got cooking up.”
Percy: “Oh yeah, he’ll still be over tonight, and the fun begins from there.”
Marshall: “Neat.”
Percy: “You know, I really wanted to put the hangout together just to celebrate Jake’s return to a more stable route. It’s been a while since he’s been home, and I figured it’d put a smile on his face, especially since he’s been in a sour mood lately.”
William: “Yeah, I know. He’s talked about how upset he’s been lately, and pretty much everything he’s been through. I just can’t help but feel worried for him.”
Percy: “Yeah, me too. We’ve known each other since we were kids, and this is the lowest I’ve ever seen him. The thought of him having to travel all over the country for work can really make someone feel lonely. But hey, being his lifelong friend, I know pretty much everything that can put a smile on his face.”
Marshall: “Hey, that’s good to know.”
Percy: “It really is. Like we always say, he always have each other’s backs, in both the best and worst of times. We’re pretty much inseparable. He’s the jelly to my peanut butter, or vice versa. But anyways, we’re the best duo this forest could ever ask for, and I will do everything in my power to make him and everyone around me feel better, regardless of how much I try.”
William: “And that’s nice that you’re wanting to do that. This is why we love having you as a best friend.”
Percy: “Awww, ain’t that nice.”
Marshall: “And that’s the truth.”
Percy: “Listen, I appreciate you guys wanting to help me out. If anything, this get-together could make everyone happy. ‘Cause let’s face it: everyone deserves to be happy for the holidays.”
William: “That is true, but do you think it’ll work? I mean, there’s only so much joy one person can give.”
Percy: “I’m hopeful. Yes, I understand I can do so much, but I want folks to at least know that I’m there whenever they need me. It’s pretty much how I was raised, and it’s been my mantra since before I left home. Trust me, it will work. And knowing Jake, I hope it does.”
Marshall: “Yeah. I don’t see the harm of trying.”
William: “Me neither.”
Percy: [giggles] “There we go. Speaking of trying, wanna help me put the rest of these decorations up?”
William: “Oh yes.”
Marshall: “You’ve read my mind, buddy.”
Some time passes and we catch back up with Jake, who was pretty much done with his deliveries. Before he headed back to Percy’s house, he made a stop at one of his favorite places: a quiet, little coy pond, which had a little bench where one could sit and enjoy the silence, something he’s known to do. While there, he had constant thoughts of past holidays spent with family, as well as recent ones he’s had to miss because of his continuous travel schedules. The thought of that alone had him fighting back tears. He couldn’t help but just sit there and feel bad for himself.
Jake: [sighs] “It feels like such a lonely night. First time I’ve been back home for the holidays in a while and I’m not even sure how I actually feel about it. I mean, it’s a good feeling, but will it actually get me in the Christmas spirit? That I’m not sure of.”
At that moment, Jake receives a rather special surprise: his guardian angel, out of the blue, showed up next to his shoulder. Keep in mind that this is a complete 360 from the usual good vs. evil angel, rather someone who’s the opposite.
Guardian Angel: “Hello again, friend. How’s it going?”
Jake: “Ummm, I’d say it’s going alright, but to be honest, am I alright? I just don’t know.”
Guardian Angel: “That’s a good question. Are you?”
Jake: “I don’t know. I just feel like I don’t have the answers right now. I mean, I haven’t been back at home full time in a while and it already feels like it’s become a huge problem.”
Guardian Angel: “Oooh, I see. You’re getting used to having your job close to home, huh?”
Jake: “Exactly.”
Guardian Angel: “So it’s like you wanna celebrate coming back, but feel like you can’t?”
Jake: “Yes. But that doesn’t mean I don’t wanna be in the Christmas spirit. Christmas has been one of my favorite holidays, but in recent years it’s like I don’t care about it anymore. I’m always busy, my frustrations always get in the way, and it always has me asking whether or not it’s worth celebrating. I don’t even know if I can answer that.”
Guardian Angel: “It’s too hard for you to do so, huh?
Jake: “Yes. All of it.”
Guardian Angel: “Aaaah, okay. Let’s see, given from what I’ve heard, I’d say you’re feeling a bit nervous about recent events, and all of a sudden it’s bringing out past memories and has you wondering whether or not you can pick up the pieces of where you left off at. That’s completely understandable.”
Jake: “Are you sure about that? Cause I don’t think that’s how I feel right now.”
Guardian Angel: “Of course. It’s always the case, especially when you’ve relocated to another place, or are just making it back home after a long trip. It’s common, but it depends on how you feel taking it all in.”
Jake: “Yeah I suppose.”
Guardian Angel: “First and foremost, I must ask you: how do you feel about being back home this time around?”
Jake: “Ummm, that’s a rough question, but I’d say I’m feeling a mix of emotions. I’m mostly excited, but at the same time, it’s like I don’t even know if I’m able to enjoy the fun of the holidays. I wouldn’t know where to start.”
Guardian Angel: “How about with your friends? How about with your family? That’s the first thing I would suggest.”
Jake: “Well, my friends are having a little get-together later on tonight, so that’s something I’m at least happy about.”
Guardian Angel: “That’s a nice start. There’s nothing wrong with spending a nice, quiet evening with friends and getting to share some of the wonderful things you all like about each other. That’s the true spirit of the holidays.”
Jake: “Yeah, I guess you’re right. I mean, I can’t give up that opportunity.”
Guardian Angel: “Of course not. Everyone loves to get together and share their thoughts of each other. That’s what makes them special. But you know what else?”
Jake: “What’s that?”
Guardian Angel: “You have an amazing group of friends who not only care about you, but also like you for what you’ve become. You’re an amazing dragon and a wonderful buddy, and they respect you for the things that you’ve accomplished and the things you’ve set yourself up for.”
Jake: “Yeah, I know that, but how does any of that answer my questions?”
Guardian Angel: “Simple. You just have to embrace the holidays for what they are: a fun time to get together and spread the joy so that others will see just how much you care about them.”
Jake: “I suppose. I mean, I’m not really keen on the idea that I can quickly jump into the holiday spirit, but I’ll give it a try.”
Guardian Angel: “There you go. Just know that despite the rough times, it’s always nice to put on a brave face and enjoy a fun time with friends."
Jake: “Sure. I’m actually heading back there anyways, so I guess I can use the break. Thanks.”
Guardian Angel: “No problem, buddy. Just remember those words and you’ll be in the spirit in no time.”
Jake: “I hope so, because right now it’s looking bleak.”
Back at Percy’s house, he and his friends were awaiting their other friends for their small get-together. With Jake on his way back, they were eager for him to enjoy the festivities, given how it would be the first time in a good while that all four of them would get to enjoy some time together.
Marshall: “Have you guys heard from Jake yet?”
Percy: “Not yet, but he should be on his way back. I know he’s been in rock bottom recently, but I’m sure this party will cheer him up. It has to.”
William: “Yeah, I think we shouldn’t try to get a bit overjoyed. We don’t know how he’ll react, let alone if he’s even willing to enjoy. We all know he can get hectic about certain things.”
Percy: “I know, but nobody can go wrong with having a Percy get-together. You guys would say the same thing.”
Marshall: “I guess you’re right.”
William: “Anyways, we should at least give him a chance to settle in and enjoy whatever he wants to do. He’s only been back a week so it’s only fitting that we at least give him that opportunity.”
Percy: “Yeah, you’re right. I just hope he has a fun time.”
William: “Same here, pal.”
[Just then, the doorbell rings]
Percy: “Must be him. Okay, act causal.”
Percy walks over to the door and opens it. It wasn’t Jake, but instead it was his friend Caramel, who brought along another one of his vibrant pals: Ben, a hamster who normally wears a hat bearing his first initial.
Caramel: “Hey guys.”
Percy: “Hey there. Come right in. Must not have been hard for you guys to get here.”
Caramel: “Oh, I’d say it’s been an easy journey.”
Ben: “Pretty much. Other than some of the usual craziness out on the roads, we made it through with ease.”
William: “Hey that’s good. There’s always craziness out there, so you never know what you gonna be up against.”
Percy: “Exactly, and I speak as someone who goes through those streets every day.”
Caramel: [giggles] “I bet.”
Percy: “Anyways, Jake should be back any minute. I appreciate y’all for helping us out. He’s been in a pretty off mood lately and it’s starting to get to me.”
Ben: “Yeah, I know. I spoke to him a few days ago and he didn’t seem like his regular self. Almost is as if he was hiding the fact that something was wrong with him.”
Marshall: “Not to mention how quick he is to answer if he’s alright, even though you can see that he isn’t.”
William: “Look, I know he might still be adjusting back to being home on a full-time basis, but I do wish him the best. After all, we barely get the chance to hang out with him, so we gotta at least show him that we care about him without him noticing so much.”
Caramel: “Yep. It’s the best way to do it.”
Just as the four friends were about to get the rest of the decorations together, the doorbell rings again. Jake had finally made his back from his deliveries and after his little conversation with his guardian angel, he felt a bit of confidence come to him. But something still wasn’t right. All of a sudden, while trying to play it brave, he felt that all the words of encouragement he had just received got him even more worried, worried about whether or not he could hide the thoughts of worry and anxiety.
Jake: “Okay, Jake. You got this. Just remember everything this guardian angel told you and you should be good to go.”
Without much hesitation, Percy opens the door and lets his buddy inside.
Percy: “Hey there, buddy. Done for the night?”
Jake: “Yep. Just handed out the last of the deliveries and now I’m ready to chill out and have fun.”
Percy: “Hey, that’s the spirit. Come on in, you’re just in time.”
Jake: “Thanks.”
Jake walks in to the joy of the others, who try their best to make this night a wonderful one for the struggling dragon. The question would remain: how would he enjoy the Christmas party knowing how anxious and nervous he had become.
Jake: “I gotta say, you guys did an amazing job with the place.”
Percy: “Ah, you know, we wanted to make things looks amazing for this special night. Anything I can do to celebrate with friends.”
Jake: “Yep. You’re correct.”
Percy: “Anyways, everyone else is waiting. They’ll be really excited to see you.”
Jake: “Of course. It’s been a while since I talked to them, but hey, it’ll be nice to get to catch up.”
[We go into the next room, where everyone else was patiently waiting]
William: “I hope we’ve got everything straight, ‘cause there ain’t no telling what could happen over the next few hours.”
Caramel: “I mean, knowing Percy as long as I have, he’s bound to turn any type of get together into a party.”
William: “Yeah, let’s hope he’s able to turn this around.”
[Jake and Percy walk in]
Percy: “Hey guys, looked who showed up.”
Ben: “Hey there, Jake. Long time no see. How’s it going?”
Jake: “Ah, you know, the usual: work, family, the like.”
Marshall: “That’s nice. You done for tonight?”
Jake: “Yep. Had a chance to get myself ready, and now here I am: ready for a fun time. [to himself] I hope.”
Percy: “That’s awesome. We got a fun night planned so I hope you save enough room for it all.”
William: “Trust me buddy. We gonna have a lot of fun.”
Percy: “Yes we are. Anyways, shall we get started. Everything’s already set up so everyone, follow me into the wahcave.”
Marshall: “Yeah, let’s go.”
Without hesitation, the six friends made their way down to the wahcave, where a cavalcade of holiday-themed party decorations were on standby. It’s worth noting that whenever Percy puts a party together, he really puts a party together. And given how this party was set up to celebrate Jake’s return back home, he figured he’d go beyond expectations.
Percy: “Well buddy, what do ya think?”
Jake: “Hmmm, looks pretty good. I’m loving the holiday theme to this.”
Percy: [giggles] “I mean, it’s not everyday your best friend returns home for the holidays. I figured I’d add my own pancoon touch to what’ll be a fun night.”
Caramel: “Yeah, I have to agree. Haven’t been in the wahcave in a hot minute. I love what you did.”
Percy: “Thank you, my best doggo pal.”
Caramel: [blushes a little] “Awww, you shouldn’t have.”
William: “Hey, I gotta admit: this is an amazing job you did there Perc. You weren’t kidding when you said you had that party touch."
Percy: “Of course I do. I am from a circus family, you know. It’s in my DNA.”
William: “Figured you’d say that.”
Percy: “Anyways, shall we get underway?”
Ben: “Hey, I’m in.”
Marshall: “Me too.”
And so, the party was underway. The excitement in the air was already on full display as Percy and company were having the time of their lives. From the music, to the snacks, to everything inbetween, everyone, especially Percy, knew that the holidays were already what these friends were thinking about. Well, almost everyone. Halfway through, Jake knew something wasn’t right. Almost like his holiday joy was starting to diminish. Noticing his best friend had all of a sudden stopped enjoying himself, Percy went over to Jake to see what was wrong.
Percy: “What’s up Jake? Aren’t you enjoying the party?
Jake: “Huh? Oh yeah, yeah, yeah. It’s a fun party. Just taking a break for the moment.”
Percy: “Oh? You sure?”
Jake: “Yeah. I mean, there’s only so much dancing a dragon can do.”
Percy: “I guess you’re right. I’ll admit, I never knew how good of a dancer you were. And you can dance very well.”
Jake: “Of course. You’re a good dancer yourself.”
Percy: [giggles] “Why thank you. The term “two left feet” has a whole different meaning when you can dance on all fours.”
Jake: “You’re just willing to prove anything silly, huh?”
Percy: “Oh you know that’s correct. But for real tho, is everything alright?”
Jake: “Of course it is. I’m excited to be here. I mean, it’s the holidays, and there’s nothing wrong with spending time with friends and family for the holidays, right?”
Percy: “Exactly. You know, I never had a chance to say this, but I’m so glad that you’re back home. I know we don’t get a chance to hang out a lot, but knowing you’ve made the transition back may be one of the best things to have ever happened. Imagine what we’re able to do now. We can literally go to each other’s houses whenever we wanted to, or we could go on that place you’ve always wanted to visit. Or, or, or, we could partake in a round of walkie-talkie tag. That’d be too awesome!”
Jake: “Yeeah. Ummm, do you think I can make my way back upstairs? I need to use the bathroom.”
Percy: “Sure. Don’t be too long tho. The games begin momentarily.”
Without hesitating, Jake made his way back upstairs. What he said would be a trip to the bathroom turned out to be anything but that. Upon heading back, he sat there, wondering why he was struggling to tell his friends how he was really feeling. Trying his best to fight back tears, Jake was on the verge of wanting to leave all together. By then, his guardian angel had reappeared, seeing that the delivery dragon was in all but a foul mood.
Guardian Angel: “What’s wrong, pal?”
Jake: “Oh, I don’t know. It’s like I’m trying my best to have a fun time, but the question remains: am I really having a fun time? I just can’t bare to let that answer come out.”
Guardian Angel: “Oh, I see. You’re too scared to let your friends know how you feel.”
Jake: “I’m pretty sure I told you this, but of course. I mean, I don’t wanna get their hopes up cause we spent all this time trying to get this party together. The least I can do is show them my appreciation and act like I’m enjoying things.”
Guardian Angel: “And you deserve to do that. They’re your friends and as I said before, it’s fun being around friends for the holidays. Now I understand why you might feel some type of way about celebrating when you’re like this, but if push comes to shove, the best thing to do is to tell them exactly how you feel. There’s no telling what they would say or how they would react, but you’ll feel a bit better knowing you’ve given them a chance to know how things are with you right now.”
Jake: “I know, but…I don’t know if I wanna do that. To be honest, I’m scared of letting that part out.”
Guardian Angel: “Listen, I can understand you wanna keep that part secret, but sometimes it can be best to just get it out. You may not like letting it out in the open, but trust me, once you do, you’ll feel a bit at ease.”
Jake: “Are you sure?”
Guardian Angel: “Of course. I’m speaking from the heart, and so should you.”
[In that moment, Percy walks up to check up on his friend]
Percy: “Jake. Is everything okay?”
Guardian Angel: [to Jake] “You got this bud. I believe in you.”
[The Guardian Angel then disappears]
Percy: “You’ve been gone for quite a while. Are you sure you’re alright?”
Having been left to tell his friend the hard truth, Jake had no choice but to let everything emotion he was feeling come out. He knew it would be hard, but at the end of the day, it was the only thing he was left with. And while it was a challenge, telling his friend would be the only way for Jake to feel a bit better about being around this holiday season.
Jake: [sighs] “Well…I think it’d be best if we took this back outside.”
Percy: “Oh? I don’t think this sounds good.”
[The two friends head outside]
Percy: “Okay, you’ve been pretty off the last few days. It’s like you’re finding it hard to have a good time during this joyous holiday season. So, what’s on your mind? Is something going on at home?”
Jake: “No, everything’s fine there.”
Percy: “Then what is it? Aren’t you enjoying the party?”
Jake: “I am. It’s just…it’s just…”
Percy: “It’s just what? You can tell me. You can tell me anything that’s on your mind. I’ll understand.”
Jake: ”I’m…I’m not in the holiday spirit. There I said it. I am not, and haven’t been, in the holiday spirit this year. Are you happy?”
Percy: “Oh my. Why didn’t you just tell me that?”
Jake: “Because I didn’t wanna ruin the mood. I know you and the guys worked so hard on the party just to welcome me back here, and the last thing I wanted to do was act like a snooze. You see, every time I’m away from here, I miss a whole lot of fun things, and this includes holidays. Sometimes it can be hard for me to figure out what happens when I’m away. I don’t wanna carry the burden on you guys because I knew how much trouble it could be. Sometimes I just wish I was part of the action. Like a lot.”
Percy: “So do I. It can get lonely here whenever you’re out making deliveries, sometimes more than other times. But I totally understand where you’re getting at, cause I get like that sometimes. Especially this year. And the years before that. To be honest, the holidays had never been the same without you. Knowing you were out taking care of your business had me wondering whether or not we would ever get back together. That’s why I got super excited when you told me you were coming back home. That had to have been one of the most amazing early presents I could ever receive. You have no idea how happy that made me. I was crying tears of joy. Like, literally.”
Jake: [sniffles] “Really? Dude, you have no idea how happy that makes me.”
Percy: “Listen, no matter how often you’re gone, no matter how much you miss, no matter the reason, I will always think about you. We’ve known each other since we were kids, and we’ve always had each other’s backs. That’s the way it’s always been, and that’s the way it’ll always be. As we say, we’re technically inseparable. We fit each other like peanut butter and jelly. You’re the Rudolph to my Blitzen. And I like you the way you are.”
Jake: “Oh, buddy. Thank you. You really are a good friend.”
[The two of them hug each other]
Jake: “You know, that makes me feel a bit better. You’ve always had a way of doing that.”
Percy: “You know I do. That’s what make me the cheery pancoon I’ve become.”
Jake: [giggles a bit] “You are correct. Say, don’t we still have a party to get back to?”
Percy: “Oh, of course. Everyone must be waiting on us. Come on, the games are about to get underway.”
Wasting no time, the two best friends made their way back inside to continue the party. Jake knew that telling his best friend Percy about how he felt for the holidays would be one of the toughest tasks he could’ve done. But at the end of it all, he felt a bit better. The takeaway from it was that no matter how he felt about letting out something personal, he would always have the support of not only his family, but also his friends, especially with Percy.
Caramel: “Hey there guys. We were wondering where you two were. We’ve been set for a while now.”
Jake: “Oh, you know, we were just talking about something, as always.”
Ben: [giggles] “That’s completely understandable. After all, you two are basically inseparable.”
Percy: “Yes, yes we are. And we’re so lucky to have found each other and appreciate ourselves for who we are. The same goes for every last one of y’all. That’s what makes all of us one big extended family. And that’s the way I like it.”
William: “Yep. Gotta agree.”
Percy: “Come on, bring it in guys.”
[All six friends come in for one of their famous fur hugs, which is pretty much their equivalent of one of the most fuzziest and warmest hugs anyone can have]
Percy: “Man, I’ve always loved these hugs.”
Jake: “Me too, bud. Me too.”
The party would continue a few moments later. A fun night filled with Secret Santa exchanges, fun food, and a whole lot of music and dancing would prove to be one of Percy’s best parties yet. For someone who’s known to put a smile on someone’s face, he knows just how awesome his circus background can get, especially when it comes to making his friends feel like they’re in for a fun night (or a fun few days). The biggest takeaway from the night would be Jake realizing just how good someone can feel when they finally let out how they feel and how they are able to make things better for themselves. The holidays can be rough, but with friends by your side, you can see a little bit of light and see that it may not be as bad as you might expect.
To everyone who made it to the end of this story, I wanna wish all of y’all a very merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.
