As we get nearer to Christmas, in the midst of the frenetic shopping and many events, take a moment to look around and enjoy the scenery and time with friends and family. It is very difficult this time of year to avoid getting wrapped in the entanglement of so much commercialism. But for a moment at least, focus on the needs of those who do not have even the basics of life — food, shelter, and clothing — and commit yourself to doing a random act of kindness with no thought of reward. Then you will know you have achieved the true Christmas and holiday spirit.

My son Dion, his wife, Debra, and their daughter, Paige Alley, have arrived from their home in Perth, Australia, to spend a two-week visit with our extended family. I promised Paige some snow before they leave at the end of December, so I hope the weather co-operates or I might lose my grandmother status.
The big event at our Oak Bluffs Library this week is the Ugly Sweater Contest on Saturday, December 20, from 12 noon to 3 pm, when you can vote for the worst, or the best, ugly sweater worn by library staff. Your vote enters you into a raffle. Wear your own ugly sweater and be featured on their Facebook page. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served.

This week is Red Stocking Week at the Oak Bluffs School. All week students bring in donations. Over the years students have collected hundreds of dollars for this fund which helps to make a good Christmas for so many children and their families. Any donation, no matter how small is greatly appreciated.
School will be dismissed for the winter break at 12 noon on Tuesday, December 23, and re-open on Monday, January 5, 2015!

The open house at Windemere last Sunday  was well attended and everyone certainly enjoyed the sparkling lights and delightful company. The first floor entrance was glittering with the lights, decorated trees, and displays. Music was provided by the Ukulele players who sang and played to the delight of everyone. Family and friends were seen throughout every area, escorting residents to view the scenery and enjoy the celebrations. There were even two dogs attending who seemed to be enjoying themselves as well. When speaking with resident Helen Duarte, she wanted me to send Christmas and Holiday greetings to all. Helen had just returned from another stay at Mass. General Hospital and was so pleased to be back at her home at Windemere.

Saturday, December 20, from 1 to 3 pm is the Annual Christmas tea at the First Baptist Church Parish House in Vineyard Haven. There will be a luncheon, baked goods table, crafts and gift items at reasonable prices. Come join in, celebrate the holiday season and enjoy tea, coffee, tea sandwiches, cookies and more.  Tea Tickets cost $8 for adults, $5 for children. Or you may just stop by to check out the gift tables and baked goods for sale. After leaving the Tea, stop by the newly restored Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse for their open house from 4 to 6 pm.

Once again the P-A Club will be the setting for a very worthwhile event, a fundraiser to help raise money for a scholarship in memory of Beatrice (Beach) Bennett on Saturday, December 20. The event starts at 6 pm and then the buffet will begin with a delicious dinner prepared by the well-known chef Louis Giordano. After the dinner there will be a silent auction with some wonderful items up for bid. The $75 ticket fee will go towards the scholarship which will be administered by the Permanent Endowment Fund for Martha’s Vineyard.

The Oak Bluffs Fire Department and EMS would like to remind everyone to make sure that your smoke detectors are working and your house is numbered. Call 508-693-5380 with any questions.

We send birthday smiles to Bill Jones on the 21st. Rae Carter, Sandra deBettencourt, Bertie Madeiras, and Marie Fisher share the 22nd, and Caitlyn Francis on Christmas Day.
Enjoy your week, Peace.