The winds have subsided, we have another somewhat unexpected snow event, I guess perhaps about 2” when it is over, bringing a flurry of feathered friends to the feeder, these are of the smaller variety, though the turkey have been coming daily. The sight of the giant birds balancing on the rail of the porch and pecking at the bird feeders never stops amusing me, they certainly give the two pesky, gray squirrels pause, which suits me as well. I had been bringing the feeders in at for a while, the raccoon raids were taking them and crooks into the woods, I do not begrudge them, but some were difficult to retrieve. About a month ago, just after dark, I went to bring the tube feeder in and found that a small, large eyed, flying squirrel was eating from it, so, I left it there. It comes almost every night now, sometimes with a second, clearly, I have named the first one Rocky, and am delighted to see it soar, and glide from deck to tree or visa versa, I will even put a bit extra out for them at night. 

The week was fun filled with the gift-wrapping party at the Southport Memorial Library on Thursday, and then the Christmas Market on Saturday, both events were festive and filled attendees with good cheer. One more event is in this year’s holiday line-up at the library, family movie night. You and your family will have an opportunity to enjoy pizza, popcorn, beverages, and the movie “Klaus” on Thursday, Dec. 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. In this animated movie, a simple act of kindness always sparks another, even in a frozen, faraway place. When Smeerensburg's new postman, Jesper, befriends toymaker Klaus, their gifts melt an age-old feud and deliver a sleigh full of holiday traditions. The run time is one hour and 36 minutes so the film will begin by 6:10. Holiday PJs are not required, but are welcomed, and encouraged. So, bundle up the children, or just yourself, and head out that evening, see friends and neighbors and enjoy the coziness and the movie.

The temperatures have been chilly, but with the proper layers the outside is most enjoyable except for the ice that has formed on some pathways and driveways, that is daunting and treacherous, crampons are great and able to get you safely from point A to B, or up the sledding hill more securely. There is however the ice that is fun to navigate, that is the rink at the school. According to the Master of the Ice, Charlie Britton, it still might be another week or so before the ice is ready. It is crucial to get the ice “set” before the school children and the community begin skating. You can check for the sign on the picnic table nearest the rink, it will read “Rink – Closed” when the rink cannot be used, if it is not there, bring your skates and enjoy. In the meantime, the school is fitting each student for skates and ordering any extra pairs they might need for this year’s larger kindergarten class. They also have kindly stored extra hockey sticks and pucks in the white trailer for the community to use. So, dig out those skates, or check the thrift stores for a pair if you do not own any, and sharpen up those blades in anticipation of some winter fun. 

If you are out there during the week and need a cup of something warm or a snack, to boost your energy, you can head over to the Southport General Store whose hours are now Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., they are closed both Saturday and Sunday. The Barn is closed for the season, but you can still join the Knitting Group every Wednesday from 2-4 p.m. in the General Store dining room. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just figuring out which end of the needle is which, stitch, chat, and unwind with the group. For information call 207-633-0402. 

Much is closed, Cozy’s, Robinson’s (they will be back in March), the Inn, it is time to cook at home and seek out those creature comforts many enjoy this time of year, the warm sweaters and socks, slippers, flannel pajamas that you put on early, or leave on late in the morning, fires in the stove or hearth, the sparkle of a tree, the aromas of baking, hearty stews and chowders, brisk walks, extra blankets, whatever makes your day or night feel better during the winter, I hope you have it and that it brings pleasure.

The Winter Solstice arrives at 10:03 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 21, as of Monday the 22nd, the days will begin to lengthen gradually, plenty of time to still gaze into the clear winter skies, admire the stars and the shimmer that the moon casts upon the hummocks of snow, the silvery sheen that brings out the crystal wonder of each unique flake, like stars fallen to Earth. Happy First Day Winter.

May Peace Be With You All.