It’s hard to get into the holiday spirit when it feels like early fall outside. Sunday was the first night of Hanukkah, and it was warmer than it usually is at Passover. I’m seeing pictures of Christmas trees going up all over Facebook, but I can’t seem to find the urgency of the holidays this year. Usually I’m freaking out by this time about all that needs to be done before Christmas, and this year I haven’t given it much thought. It might have something to do with the fact that I started grad school in September, and all my finals are coming right before Christmas. I expect this to be the most relaxing Christmas ever (once all the work is done).
There is a new library associate at the Aquinnah library; her name is Jen Burkin. She is the programming and children’s librarian. Stop by and welcome Jen to the community. Tonight from 5 to 6 pm, the library will be hosting another Adult Coloring Group. Coloring materials and refreshments will be provided. Join Jen for Storytime on Thursdays at 3:30 pm and Saturdays at 10:30 am. There is a lot happening at the library for the holidays; this Saturday you can decorate gingerbread cookies from 11 am to 3 pm. The book group will meet next Thursday at 5 pm, and on Saturday, Dec. 19, there will be an Ugly Sweater Holiday Party. There will be crafts and refreshments, and, of course, ugly sweaters.
Isaac Taylor will be performing at Pathways this Friday, Dec. 11, as part of their “Evening of Music.” Doors open at 6:30 pm, and the music begins at 7 pm. There will be other musicians performing as well. There is no admission fee, and refreshments will be served.
Joan LeLacheur is hosting an open studio this Saturday, Dec. 12, and next Saturday, Dec. 19, from 10 am to 5 pm. There will be special gifts of wampum jewelry, charms, and mosaic tiles; also beautiful art cards for the holidays by Susan Shea at 42 Old South Road. Email Joanie at Joanlela57@gmail.com, or call her at 508-645-9954 for more information.
Emily Phillips, a good friend and amazing physical trainer, will be teaching her barre class at the Old Town Hall on Tuesday mornings from 7:45 to 8:45 am starting Jan. 3. There will be six classes in the series. Contact her for price and more information at emily@epyoga.com or 617-834-5820.
Isn’t something really important happening this weekend down-Island? Oh yes! Christmas in Edgartown; there is the lighting of the Edgartown Light and hot cocoa at the Harborview Hotel. On Saturday there will be the Elves Faire, and many sales around Edgartown. Vineyard Haven is also holding some holiday festivities this weekend, so be sure to stop by both places and shop local this holiday season.
This Saturday, Dec. 12, there will be a Grandparents Group from 10 to 11:30 am at the Martha’s Vineyard Family Center in Vineyard Haven. This is a group for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. Preregistration for this group required; please call 508-687-9182.
On Wednesday, Dec. 16, the first annual All-Island Veterans Dinner will be held at the American Legion Post in Vineyard Haven from 6 to 8 pm. The dinner is open to veterans of all ages, groups, and eras, service members, and their families. This is a great opportunity to gather together and enjoy a meal created and served by our very own Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School culinary students. Please RSVP by Dec. 12 to Bill Stafursky at 508-693-7900, ext. 223, or email bstafursky@mvcommunityservices.com.