Happy Holidays at the Market

Ah! The festive season draws nigh! In a few short weeks, we’ll celebrate Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men, the gift of family and friends in that annual onslaught of gift-giving and cornucopia of plenty! These few short weeks can be hectic, however, and filled with the stress at the thought of battling the busy crowds of shoppers at the big box chain stores at the mall. This year, tread a varied course and visit the area Farmers Markets where you will find superb handcrafted gifts, unique treasures, and festivity galore, all to be enjoyed at an unhurried, leisurely pace sprinkled with the friendly smiles and good wishes of the many industrious and talented vendors, all intent on making your festive season a truly memorable one!

Over the next few weeks, this column will feature a number of outlets specializing in great ideas for gifts, foods, and decor, offering many one-of-a-kind and unique creations in a distinct departure from the often mass-produced fare found in larger shops and stores. This season, use your own imagination in your gift-giving ideas and seek out specialized items off the beaten track - your friends and family will be amazed at your thoughtfulness and taste and you’ll have fun into the bargain! Here’s to wishing a Happy Holiday to you and yours, and as my gift to you all - here’s a little seasonal chuckle!

A Moncton Christmas

Make sure you grab your shopping bags
And don’t forget the Christmas tags
It’s that time of year in Moncton
And all the malls are packed!

Got a gift for Uncle Joe?
How about one for Auntie Sue?
Wading through the throngs of shoppers
Feels like Santa in a chimney flue.

Have I bought enough gift wrap?
There’re so many things to do
Gosh! I sure could use a nap
Or maybe a drink or two!

Now it’s time to deck the tree
And unravel all those lights
I’m all tied up in glitter
Every year it’s such a fight!

So fire up the oven
And prepare the butterball
Whip up the mashed potatoes
Fill up the glasses nice and tall.

Here’s to the blessed season
Of peace and love and joy
If it weren’t so darned hectic
I could sit back and enjoy.

So raise a glass and make a toast
To a season full of cheer
How I wish I could sleep though it all
And not wake up til next year!