For the Holidays

I don't want to go home for the holidays, whatever that might mean
Hauling a bag of gifts through the worst traffic I've seen
Of course I missed the bus for the holidays and next I'll miss the train
Now I'm stuck in the security line behind a pack of hippies again
I guess I'll wrap up tight
And try to be of good cheer
After all, you know it's true
Christmas comes but once a year

I don't want to go home for the holidays, I'd rather drop dead
Can't fold my adult height into my teenage twin bed
I don't want to go home for the holidays, my cat's not even there
The arid climate here does nothing for my hair

Do you want to go out to your hometown bar, or would you rather stay in?
Is it worse to see jerks you knew or play boardgames with your next of kin?
Have you ever gotten stoned for the holidays? Your parents always know
They have so many questions about where you might go

I guess I'll wrap up tight
And try to be of good cheer
After all, you know it's true that
Christmas comes but once a year

I guess I'd rather see my friends for the holidays, that doesn't sound so bad
Even if the weirdest ones have somehow become dads
I don't want to be alone for the holidays, I can't do that anymore
Do you think you could pick me up to burn flags by the reservoir?

This year I'm staying home for the holidays, I'm skipping the bus and the train
Going to walk around my neighborhood looking at Christmas lights in the rain
I hope you feel at home for the holidays, wherever you might be
If you are in Boulder try to spare a thought for me

Written and recorded by Rose Lewis, Coale Henderson, and Austin Heller

Page illustration by Bets Ochoa