We got the artificial Christmas tree up this week. Too soon? I’ve been waiting for it. 

Like the stores do, I held out until after Halloween. And nothing against it or Thanksgiving, but the tree and other light-up decorations with the Peanuts gang and more who reappear at Christmastime, or post-Halloween, mean the spirit of the season plus the relief and satisfaction another year is nearly through, full of memories of all the good and great moments, the kind you appreciate even when they’re happening; growth from lessons learned and new challenges; hope; and sorrow, for each year holds it, too.

Christmastime gets bittersweet with the years. Whenever your Christmastime starts, or Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Yule, or other celebration, enjoy the thoughts of ones you’ve had before, and make the most of this one. There is still good to be had, and there is still good to be done.

* * *

Glad to read Phil Di Vece’s report this week that Maine Department of Transportation will be in Woolwich to talk Nov. 15. Communication is key to mutual satisfaction with any project and the bridge one is a big deal, as are the current sets of lights at the Route 1-Nequasset Road intersection. I have said here before, I am partial to them. And from the latest news, it sounds like I am not the only one. 

Good luck working toward whatever decision emerges as best for safety.

Week’s positive parting thought: American Legion Post 54 Auxiliary President Diane Munsey made a good point last week when we were wrapping up our interview for this week’s story on Legion event planning. She mentioned this nice, warm weather can’t be here much longer, and sometimes it has snowed by now. 

We agreed we will take this unseasonable stretch for as long as it lasts.