Copied from a post in the Single Action Shooting Society Saloon:
Lots of us have family in the Armed Services that won't be home for Christmas.
“Boots in the House” means that an active-duty serviceman/woman is visiting home. This was written by an Air Force Mom.
Boots in the House
I’ll have no boots this season underneath my Christmas tree,
I tried to keep my hopes up, but it wasn’t meant to be.
I even wrote to Santa, so he wouldn’t be confused
With the size that I wanted, and how they would be used.
They’d be brown and mostly worn, and that would be just fine.
Because the person wearing them is what I have in mind.
I woke up Christmas morning, there were no boots to see.
Instead, a note from Santa is what was left for me.
I know you asked for “boots in the house,” I know I let you down.
But when I went to get the boots, this is what I found.
An Airman standing at the watch, and many working hard.
Several Airmen missing home while reading Christmas cards.
Christmas decorations were everywhere I roamed.
Seems they did their very best to make it feel like home.
I found the boots you asked for, neatly tucked away.
Inside there was a note for me, so I’d know just what to say.
Santa,
Please tell Mom I miss her, and all the family, too.
And as much as I would like to be home, I’ve got a job to do.
I brought with me my memories of all my Christmas’ past.
That’s something that will get me through, a gift you cannot wrap.
I figured you’d ask Santa to come and bring me home.
I’m asking him to let you know, it’s ok, I’m not alone.
My heart is always with you, but this is where I need to be.
I have my Air Force family, and this year, they have me.
Like those who came before us, we take turns standing guard.
Knowing those we love are safe makes it not so hard.
So don’t be mad at Santa, Mom, he obviously tried,
But this year I am standing watch with my family at my side.
He ended it with all his love, my eyes filled up with tears,
That child that I had raised was so wise beyond his years.
I have no boots for Christmas, underneath my Christmas tree.
Because the one who’s wearing them is hard at work protecting me.
God Bless all of our active Servicemen and women,
Thank you for your vigilance, dedication, and service,
And may you soon have your "Boots in the House".