The holiday party season has begun.

The turks seem startled by the heat in the house but their treats taste just as good inside or out.

I recall a group of black Republicans from Massachusetts who were strong supporters of Bush 41, and had longstanding ties to the Vineyard.

It is cold and flu season and I think this weather is contributing to this. One day it is 50 degrees and then the next is 30. It has rained and wind has swirled. Keep up with the Vitamin C and stay healthy.

Happy birthday to all who celebrated their day this past week. Big balloons go out to Hannah Tate-Arena who celebrated Dec. 2; Sarah Ribeiro, and Emmett Sylva, Dec. 3; Katherine Conover, Dec. 5; James Thornton, Dec. 6; and to Danielle Meyer who celebrates her day Friday, Dec. 7.

Special wishes go out to Lucas Cavallo who celebrated his special day Dec. 6.

Next Saturday is the day many of you have been waiting for.

I hardly ever see anyone else on these walks, even as we cross the main road at Blow Your Bugle Corner.

Tomorrow is the final day of shotgun season for deer hunters.

Anna and Shawn Barber, of West Tisbury, announce the birth of a son, Silas McGaughran, born on Nov. 18.

Andrea S. Rico and Warley Miranda, of Vineyard Haven, announce the birth of a daughter, Rebecca S. Miranda, born on Dec. 2.

Amelia M. Simas and Alexandre T. Simas, of Oak Bluffs, announce the birth of a son, James M. Simas, born on Nov. 30.