On Sunny Lane: Have Your Christmas Shopping Done?

A common question that is asked at this time of year is: “Do you have your Christmas shopping done?”

A common answer is, “No, I don’t know what to buy.”

Don’t get mad at me, but I’ve basically been done since August. Last summer, as I was browsing through one of the countless catalogs I receive in the mail, I came upon an item that I thought everyone in the family would enjoy, so I ordered it right away. And I’ve had them wrapped since November. I’m not always this efficient, but I try to get everything done in a timely manner.

And, I gave up baking for the holidays long ago. All of that sweet stuff is more than a person’s body can handle. We can get all of the holiday cheer we need when we go to parties and dinners. So, I can relax and enjoy the holidays.

Of course, there are parties to attend and dinners to host. That’s part of the joy of the season. There are local charities to support, and that’s spreading the joy. Attending church services is what the season is all about.

All of the hustle and bustle puts some life into a time of the year when nature’s wild creatures have gone to bed. When snow covers the ground, we can sit inside and raise our glasses and forks in comfort and joy.

Some people, however, are dealing with infirmity or misfortune and even the passing of a loved one. They deserve our compassion and respect. And even a little bit of our time.

I have a cousin whose eyesight has been deteriorating for the last few years. We used to text each other, but now we make phone calls, because he can’t read the texts anymore. In fact, he can’t do much of anything that requires eyesight—except watch television.

So, I have been calling him from time to time and reading to him from one of the magazines that we both receive in the mail. He always thanks me and says I do a good job.

I think I will call him on Christmas Day, and, after I have wished him Merry Christmas, I will read him a story. Then all of my Christmas gift giving will be complete.

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Dorothy is the author of two books—“Miles and Miracles” and “Getting It All Together “. You can purchase a book or send a comment by emailing her at dorothybutzknight@gmail.com