Ho, ho, ho, and a Merry Christmas to all! Yes, I’m feeling festive. I’ve got all my work caught up so you good folks have something to open under your tree. What a relief! It’s over. Now it’s time to relax a bit and enjoy the season. I know I have been neglectful in my duties here but I’ve been terribly busy with some personal matters and as a result I got overwhelmed in the shop with framing orders. Not to worry however, things are back under control and I promise to be more attentive in the days and months ahead.

For those of us of the Christian persuasion, this is a special time of year. It is the birth of Jesus. You probably know the story so I won’t go into it here. Regardless of what your thoughts are on the matter, you have to agree the man has had considerable influence on the world over the years.

Fortunately for us, the three wise men that came seeking the babe out, brought gifts. That tradition has lasted, which is good news for all the retailers here on Main Street. Some years are better than others but by all indications this has been a pretty good one for most of us. Thanks. Seems that folks in general are feeling better about things in general. Let’s hope it lasts for a while.

I remember when I was young, my Aunt and Uncle would have a big Christmas for the family and in particular, us kids. I recall one year there were something like 21 young people under the age of 13. When you became a “teenager” you left that exclusive club. Of course those who were in the 10, 11, and 12 year old bracket didn’t want to be included with the 4 and 5 years olds but the line had to be drawn somewhere. Those were fond childhood memories.

There are many in the service sector that will have to give up some or all of their Christmas so the rest of us can celebrate ours. I’m thinking the law enforcement, fire fighters, hospital workers, etc. etc. Of course there are a lot of military men and women who will be away from family today too. Somehow in somebody’s mind they are making it safe for us here at home so we can celebrate the day. At least that’s what I was told when I was in Vietnam. We all know how that turned out. I’m sure they are still preaching the same rationale today. Son Ted, as you may know, is in the US Army stationed in North Africa doing stuff he can’t talk about. His wife Heather came home to Montrose from Ft. Riley, Kansas for Christmas. Roads were terrible she said.

There are lots of friends and family traveling the roads and the skies to get to friends and family so they can spend this time together. The weather can often impact that effort in various parts of the country as it usually does. Be careful out there.

If you get a chance, stop by. Merry Christmas to all!

Art by Ivan Shishkin (1832-1898) “In the Wild North,” 1891, oil on canvas