We are not the only family making our way through what they call a year of firsts. Although we experienced the holidays without Emmett’s physical presence, he was with us in conversation, stories, memories, pictures and laughter over the lack of random electronic gifts. He was always the techie who, in addition to gifting his paintings, decoys and other artistic creations, you could count on unwrapping something that most likely left you reading step by step directions while your new device was plugged into an electrical outlet and charging.

Somehow it seemed appropriate to have taken a walk in the drizzle through Abel’s Hill to visit with his memory. The pups in our family, chasing and tangling their leashes, often with one of us twisted within, provided comic relief.

When I needed cookie bakers for Santa’s visit at the fire station last week, I was lucky to find a few friends with “can do” community spirit. Ali Flanders, Aly Lanzone Weisner, Cat Rykowski, Liz Oliver, Bradley Carroll and Julia Spiro all contributed. Oddly, without any discussion, they all contributed something different. I was not only grateful but pretty darn impressed.

For the three Cs otherwise known as Caleb, Chris and Celia Slater, it was Christmas as usual at Jane’s house on Basin Road. A few chores, a little deer hunting and a whole lot of visiting took place while they were in town from their home in Northbridge. Santa himself brought Jane a new stove. Next year I’ll call on her to bake a few treats for the children’s fire department Christmas.

Once again, the Oskan family opted for less stuff under the tree and more family adventure. They embarked on a trip that took them to the panhandle of Florida, where colorful houses lined the seaside and beaches provided an opportunity for a little extra vitamin D. Then, on Christmas Day, their rental car brought them through that magical gateway into the land of fairies, princesses, and epic adventurers: Disney welcomed them for a few days of pure magic. Gwen and big sisters Piper and Ella checked out everything from the Tower of Terror to the iconic castle, with Katie and George in tow.

Eloise Christy set the high school’s new indoor high jump record with her 5’1” jump. She and sister Wren are hitting the ball out of the park once again.

Helen and Arne de Keijzer were at their Larsen Lane home this past week with family. The draw of the sea brought them out for a stroll. A toddler in the mix added a layer of excitement and an opportunity to see the world though young eyes. Kids always change the perspective on things and tend to lighten the load we adults carry on our shoulders. As always, it’s a pleasure to see them even if it’s only for a quick verbal exchange.

I rarely mention a birthday. I have this inner fear that I’m going to unintentionally forget someone and their feelings will be hurt. It’s sort of an irrational fear because I think most people who know me realize that, although I am snarky on occasion, I aim to please. When your name doesn’t shows up in lights — no, not in a billboard but within this column — it’s a genuine oversight.

Sometimes I can’t help myself and really need to mention milestone birthdays. This birthday boy-man has been in my life since he was toddling. He’s one of my so-called extra children and as I write he’s sleeping under my roof, transitioning into adulthood. Well, he’s transitioning into chronological adulthood because what 18-year old these days is truly an adult? Happy birthday, Tegan Morison Fenner. May your 18th year find you rally car-ing your way to epic waves and packed powder under bluebird skies.

I’ll admit that sometimes it’s hard to sit down and write this column. Writing time always seems to creep up on me and with each creep I remind myself that I should be taking notes throughout so that when I sit the words will rapidly flow out my fingertips onto the keyboard. I mentioned to Debby Packer that I was having trouble once again. She told me to, like a television series, be my own episode. Thank you for your kind words and thoughtful advice. My autograph will be forthcoming. Wink, wink.