Are the lights strung? Are the stockings hung? Has the baking been done and the turkey bought?
It’s four days till Christmas and while on one hand, it can seem like it will never arrive, on the other, there doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day to get everything prepared for the kids and the relatives who’ll descend on households across the province this weekend.
But perhaps, as a gift to yourself, you can forgo the extra prep in favour of some relaxation. Will anyone really notice if the cranberry sauce comes from a can rather than made from scratch? Those residents who work full time need to savour the few days off they’ll get for the festive season.
It’s true, though, that the lack of snow in the Cariboo might be making the days feel less festive than usual for some (while others might be jumping for joy at not yet having to spend much time shovelling the driveway).
Whatever your perspective, make sure to take some time this weekend and early next week, amid all the excitement and hubbub of visitors and preparations, to reflect on the giving season and enjoy each moment.
Those residents with young children will be able to enjoy the magic of Santa Claus and his eight reindeer as Christmas tales are spun on Dec. 24, and those without will enjoy a peaceful morning Dec. 25, probably thankful to be without the 6 a.m. wake up to discover if the big guy came down the chimney.
Of course, for many, the day will be filled with religious significance as well, as they honour the day Jesus was born in the desert.
Whatever your traditions, we wish you all the very best for your celebrations, and hope that you’ll have the chance to connect with family far and wide, whether in person, or via telephone or Skype.
For as much as the holiday can be centered around a great meal, exciting gifts and eggnog sipped by the fire – what it’s really about it family and friends, close relationships and distant, and everyone coming together to share in the spirit of the season.
We wish you a very Merry Christmas.
-Quesnel Cariboo Observer