(Strip Number 1237, Original Publication Date, 22 December 1986)
Panel 1: Elly tells John that she isn't going to put the presents she's carrying under the tree yet because the kids will get too excited if they see them.
Panel 2: As she puts them on the shelf of the bedroom closet, she explains that they're anxious enough as it is so having a bunch of presents they can't open yet will make things worse.
Panel 3: John watches as Elly goes off somewhere else.
Panel 4: He then shakes a few boxes so he can guess what's in them.
Summary: Elly seems to be the only person not consumed with anticipation owing her not having the time. This is why the original of Wednesday's strip has her be delighted that the rushing around and hard work no one appreciates is over with for another year.