I’m sitting down to write this at the end of an unexpectedly long and stressful Sunday. Unfortunately, Amelia has suffered a setback with her knees, experiencing problems similar to those she had three years ago that led to surgery in both knees and a year and a half off from dance. To make matters worse, she broke her foot a few weeks ago, and is now sporting a lovely gray boot on her right foot. As a result of both these issues, she was sidelined for the Rise holiday shows today at the PAC, which was sadder for both of us than expected. Add to all of that the fact that Riley was scheduled to be flying home from New Mexico tonight, but was bumped to the morning because of a delayed flight that would make him miss his connection.I realize he is 18 and has been in the world on his own for several months, but he is still my child, and I fret. My head is pounding.
All of that said, the Rise show was another great performance, playing to a full house. I don’t recall ever seeing so many people at the holiday show in years past. It has become quite a tradition since its introduction years ago at the Oak Bluffs School, and it is a fun way to get in the holiday spirit.
On Monday, Dec. 24, the Edgartown Federated Church will hold its annual Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 10 pm. The evening service will include music by the Federated Church Choir under the direction of Peter R. Boak, minister of music, and readings from the Bible, telling the Christmas Story. The service concludes with the lighting of candles and the singing of “Silent Night.” All are welcome. For more information call 508-627-4421, or email officefederatedchurchmv@gmail.com.
Happy birthday wishes go out to Alex Vasiliadis on Dec. 16, Mark Lamphier on Dec. 17, Brenda Perry and Claire Crowell on Dec. 21, and Fran Agnoli on Dec. 22.
I received a call from Carl Widdiss’ wife, Pam, today asking me to share the news that Carl’s Magical Christmas Tree will be up and ready to welcome visitors this week. The idea of this tree is that visitors bring an ornament or decoration to hang on the tree and when they hang it, they make a secret promise to perform one act of kindness during this season. Carl always believed in doing for others and performing random acts of kindness, so the family has begun the tradition of this tree to honor his memory, and believe in “paying it forward.” The tree is at his burial site at the Aquinnah Cemetery, where it goes up every year and stays up until the end of March. It is, however, extra-special at Christmas. This year, there will also be a stocking at the site from which visitors get get a “small treat from Carl.” While this isn’t really “Edgartown news,” I think it is a very special idea worth sharing, in the spirit of the holidays.
As I leave work at night, all the stores are closed on Main Street in Vineyard Haven but there is always holiday music playing, coming from Bobby B’s or that area. It’s very serene and calming, and has a very classic, old town feel to it. If it wasn’t so late and I wasn’t so tired, I’d love to just sit and enjoy it for a bit.
As I finish up this article, it is Monday night. My headache is gone, though I’ve developed a cold. But my boy is home safe and the sounds of chatter and laughter coming from the other room are bringing me great joy. My heart is full.
I wish you all a wonderful holiday. May you be rich in the gifts of love, family, friends, and kindness. Anything else is just icing on the cake. Merry Christmas
