Grayling – Here we are getting close to the end of the year.
In fact, this will be my last message from 2019. Seems a little strange when I just returned from Ohio where I saw a stage production put on by my granddaughters Production Company – “Cutting Edge Theater”. It was called “Spring Awakening.” It was actually about young people – not the weather. But I’ve been trying to find a way to get in a plug for her company and this seemed the spot! And – as long as I’m bragging – my daughter Jini and her husband Wayne celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. What a wonderful occasion!
So – forgive a grandmother! \ Back to the north country.
Because I remember it so vividly, I can’t let December go by without remembering Pearl Harbor Day on the 7th. I was about 15 on that eventful day and it is a vivid memory for me and always will be.
GPA finished up our Festival of Trees and a great many people went happily home with a Christmas Tree or a beautiful basket of goodies. I think we had more baskets than ever this year and they were amazing. And the trees – we have some very creative folks in our area. The trees were spectacular. Hope you won something – I didn’t. But it doesn’t matter – I enjoy the entire event and work about three times during the two-week event. Hope you came to see it. And Santa too!!
Speaking of GPA – we had our annual Christmas Party at a beautiful lodge on the AuSable River. Since there are about 30 of us who gather for our party, we need more room than anyone’s house can supply. So, for the past few years this has been our Christmas Party home. It was a real evening of friendship. We decorate the lodge for Christmas and if you can’t get in the spirit there – you’ve got a problem.
Another annual “get into the spirit” event was the Chambers Christmas Party – Flannel & Frost – at the Artisan Gallery. What a great evening. Many businesspeople were there – many GPA members were there.
The food was furnished by some of the many eateries around town as well as those that sell food and drink. There was music and conversation and friendship. Is there a better way to celebrate Christmas? Not for me.
Much as I love the view from my windows that look out on pines and the river – I will be heading downstate to be with my family – and then be back in Grayling to celebrate the New Year – very quietly.
Its time that I wish any and all of you who read this article a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year 2020!
Let’s hope that the world we live in settles down to be a more peaceful place. I feel sure that is everyone’s wish – that we could all live together peacefully. To live and let live. To treat others as we would like to be treated. To be kind.
There is a poem by Esther Wood that I have always loved – and it says it well … here is part of it:
God bless your home and the people there,
May the skies that touch your roof be fair.
Your hearth burn bright, and your candle shine,
And the snowflakes sparkle on your pine!
Merry Christmas!
Betty Bennett
