Having endured a cold and rather bleak November, we now find ourselves on the cusp of that time of year when a dusting of snow is appreciated, and the crispness in the air is nothing a little hot chocolate and candy cane can’t fix. The arrival of December also signals the end of the frenzied Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Flying Tuesday shopping events as attention shifts to holiday preparations.
A wave of community Christmas spirit that has been building over the past few weeks is set to wash over us as festive events, magical activities, and joyful opportunities take over our calendars. Most of these cheerful happenings and shared celebrations are volunteer-run and community-oriented. Gift-giving activities for children have been organized in different municipalities or by community groups such as the Optimist Clubs in Huntingdon and Saint-Anicet. Santa Claus and his elves will be visiting most events, and the jolly old elf will take centre stage next weekend at the LBA’s Christmas Village and the annual parade in his name in Howick.
Examples of the holiday spirit can be found throughout the pages of this edition, including those who noshed on sugar cookies to help Melissa’s Sunshine Camp, and the Rudolph runners who laced up despite the cold to benefit La Bouffe Additionnelle. Over the past weekend alone, the local food pantry received more than 1,926 kilograms of food and nearly $12,000 in donations, demonstrating the community’s remarkable generosity.
These events, along with those yet to come this month, speak to the Valley’s community togetherness and neighbourly spirit. Here’s hoping these gatherings filled with joy and goodwill will bring about a cheerful and heartwarming holiday season for all.
Sarah Rennie