“And numerous indeed are the hearts to which Christmas brings a brief season of happiness and enjoyment.” –Charles Dickens, “The Pickwick Papers”
Christmas does bring a rush of emotions, along with all the ritual and busy activity. In early childhood education, we talk about “big feelings,” and even adults experience those around the holidays. We remember the joy and anticipation of our childhood holidays, we miss the people who are no longer with us, and we celebrate the moments we now have with family and friends. It can also be a particularly hard time of year for many. Thank you to all the wonderful Island organizations that are here to help and support anyone who is struggling.
Kwanzaa celebrations began on Dec. 26 and continue through Jan. 1. Each day of Kwanzaa (which was named from a Swahili phrase meaning “first fruits”) honors one of seven principles for living: Unity, Self-Determination, Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith. Celebrations include candle-lighting, colorful clothing, music, dance, and special food. Joyous Kwanzaa!
There are many ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve on-Island! The P.A. Club will become a Mardi Gras Masquerade party, with prizes for costumes, and live music by Mike Benjamin & the Keepers. The party starts at 9 pm, and tickets are $50, with 20 percent of proceeds going to the Food Pantry.
First Night will be celebrated in Vineyard Haven, with a family-friendly event on Dec. 31 from 6 to 8 pm. Sponsored by Visit Vineyard Haven and the MV Youth Task Force, there will be vendors, music, and fun at the Vineyard Playhouse, including a ball drop to welcome the new year.
However you celebrate, whether it is out for dinner and dancing or home with popcorn, pajamas, and a movie –– have a safe and healthy last night of 2025!
Happy birthday to Muriel O’Rourke on Dec. 27! Sonya Lima celebrates on Dec. 28; she shares the day with Seth Meyers. Birthday hugs to George Davis on Dec. 29. George shares the day with Asa Vought, and Miss Anderson Farrissey, who will blow out five candles this year!
Start 2024 with a big birthday hug for Tommye Ann Brown on the 1st. She shares the date with Abe Seiman –– warm wishes to you, Abe! Jan. 2 is the big day for Michelle deHaro, Jen Araujo, Michelle Bettencourt, and Maranda Post –– happy birthday, wonderful ladies! Leslie Hewson celebrates on Jan. 3, along with one of my favorite authors and moms, Mathea Morais, and also animal whisperer Phebe Bates. Jan. 3 is happy anniversary day for Jeremy Jones and Annie Parsons! Happy birthday to Adam deBettencourt on Jan. 4! On Jan. 5, we celebrate Jules Ben David, Roberta Kirn, and Kate Feiffer. Michael Araujo and Uma Datta will be blowing out their candles on Jan. 6, and birthday hugs across the state to Annie Landry!
Wishing you all good health and much joy in the New Year! Send me your news!