Friends of ours have great memories.
Some will recall the winter of 1990-something when there was a green Christmas. Undoubtedly we had a similar experience at the time, but couldn’t say what year it was.
All we do know for sure is the chances of a white Christmas appear pretty slim this year.
While the weather has been enjoyable this December, the thought of no snow has many Canadians out of sorts. It has allowed the holiday to sneak up on many of us.
We suspect this past week was a busy one at stores once last minute shoppers realized time was running out.
Although our penchant for remembering weather and the associated year are poor, we have many memories of places and people, particularly those close to us.
The thought crossed our mind recently of dad singing Bing Cosby’s White Christmas decades ago. We think fondly of family and friends gathered for the great dinners mom made.
Memories have not faded either of time spent in Elora as a teenager, where pool and euchre capped off hours of fun and being treated like gold. It was an upbringing in which Christmas and holidays were kept well.
We hope ourselves to generate similar memories for our own family with the fun and traditions this season has to offer. If our own experience offers any guide, the presents and “stuff” of the season will quickly fade as a memory. Instead, it will be the time spent with others that will be remembered.
We should be mindful of others who will need some compassion this holiday season. Whether it is the first Christmas without a loved one, or troubles with finances or health, we owe it to family and neighbours to show as much kindness as we can. It’s amazing how priceless a hug and kind word can be.
For our readers and advertisers who support us throughout the year – thank you. On behalf of all our staff, we wish you the very best Christmas ever with family and friends.
