Thoughts on the Holidays

Christmas is nearly here and, once again, I'm amazed at how quickly the year has moved by me. It's a time filled with memories and reflection. From childhood through to adulthood, this time of year has always been very special in my life. In the spirit of the season, I thought I'd offer a few thoughts that have come to mind of late.

Last year was our first without Priscilla with us. Even though as a parent you know these days are coming, it's never easy when they inevitably arrive. Now that she's back home with us this year, we're all making every effort to insure this Christmas is a memorable one. Because as we learned last year, these times are indeed very special. It seems you never know when an opportunity for memory-making might pass by forever.

So we've decorated the tree and the ladies have been making festive around the place. Collectively, I think we've already been to more holiday parties than probably ever in any previous season. Work is starting to wind down as folks at the office drift away for their own breaks, and the ones who've yet to pack up for a break are feeling more festive and relaxed, creating an atmosphere of calm which is quite welcome after the hectic pace of the past few months.

Plans for our annual Christmas Eve buffet and holiday cheer extravaganza are well in hand. The buffet, filled with its tasty treats and immense variety, is an artifact of my childhood that we all look forward to with special anticipation. In many ways, I think it embodies the sharing and fellowship that so appropriately epitomizes Christmastime. And, of course, a mound of gifts has already begun to appear under the tree in preparation for Christmas morning.

And this year, we'll be doing something extra special as Priscilla and I take to the airwaves of CJSW to spin an entire show filled with our favourite holiday tunes. Not only will the show itself be a great time together, but the recording will, I'm sure, become the soundtrack for many Christmas Eves to come. We also have plans to head out to BC for a short road trip between Christmas and New Year's, which should be a wonderful time together for us all.

I know we will all look back on this year with particular fondness. For it will be, in effect, the product of all our previous Christmases together and a hopeful vision of things to come, not only for the New Year but for a brighter future overall. It's that link from past, through present and into the future that, for me anyway, really makes this the most wonderful time of year.

So it is my sincere hope that all your holidays are filled with reflection and wonder. Peace and joy, today and always.  -Mark