Ashland Speaks – The Mountain Eagle

By Lula Anderson

As another week speeds by, we find ourselves hurtling closer to the eagerly anticipated Thanksgiving. The sudden drop in temperature signals the arrival of the winter season. Across ski slopes, the snow has started to settle as snowmakers practice their craft. Reports have trickled in of Windham’s careful coverage of two slopes. In my own space, the appearance of ice in outdoor birdbaths prompts me to retrieve the wood and cover my windows in plastic. It’s time to dust off the winter clothes stowed away last spring, prepare the heavy jackets and retire the lawn mowers for the season.

Acknowledgment is owed to everyone who supported the local churches on Election Day through their participation in dinners and bake sales. Let’s hope this tradition continues. It’s a shame that baking for sales has become a lost art. Recipes flood the Internet, yet the impulse to make and donate them seems to wither away.

This year, the American Legion will have the privilege of personally delivering bags of gifts to the Veterans at Stratton VA. This joyful endeavor will be led by Ginny Gurley. Gift-wrapping and festivities are scheduled for December 10th.

The WAJPL Golden Agers are set to host their monthly social gathering with guest speakers on Monday, the 20th. An homage to Friendsgiving awaits attendees with turkey, gravy, stuffing, and cranberry relish. If you know someone spending the holiday alone, bring a take-out box or have them join for the full experience.

A heartfelt message of sympathy is extended to the families of Arita Jaeger DeMarco, Marilyn Dippold from Westkill, Lorna Barlow Puleo, and Kevin Holmok. Prayers are offered for Craig Benjamin.

THE SEASON OF GRATITUDE

The holidays approach at what seems like an ever-accelerating pace. Already, decorations are sprouting in stores, blending the last remnants of Halloween with the early hints of Christmas. The transition from orange candy to Christmas-wrapped treats is underway. It’s time for the pre-“Black Friday” Black Friday Sales bonanza.

My thoughts are drawn back to the cherished memory of large family dinners. We had a special tradition where each family picked a name at Thanksgiving to host the Christmas Dinner. My father’s family, which included his sister and brother’s families, and my mother’s Aunt Nellie Alberti created a warm atmosphere, rich with shared meals and laughter. The table groaned under the weight of the food, with each family contributing a special dish. We’d often revel in charades, the joy of sharing gifts, and the simple pleasure of being together. Those were the stuff memories are made of.

It’s disappointing to see that many people now opt for restaurant dinners or pre-made meals to-go. Somewhere along the way, the true essence of gathering as a family has been lost. Let’s reignite the spirit of togetherness and hospitality this holiday season. Wishing you and your families a joyous and bountiful Thanksgiving and a blessed Holiday Season from Judy and I.