It’s hard to believe the holidays are upon us. There’s no denying, though, as the tell-tale signs are everywhere: The Umbrella Factory’s 14th Annual Family Night where once again, Dave and Gail Allenson go all out to provide our community with an affordable night of family fun and merriment. Or how about the Naples Main Street and the Naples Fire Department’s Holiday Tree lighting (see below).

Stiles Celebrates

Yes, as her name suggests, Naples resident NancyLou Stiles celebrated her 70th birthday in style! About 40 family and friends gathered at the Top of the Hill Grill in South Casco to honor this very interesting, spirited lady and learn more about the amazing life she’s led thus far. As lunch was being served, NancyLou opened her speech by thanking everyone for sharing in her celebration and stating, “Life is an adventure.” She then proceeded to tell in detail some really fascinating details about her upbringing, marriages, children and professional life. I was transfixed as NancyLou told us of her many exploits and experiences. One philosophy of NancyLou’s that has stuck with me since her party is her, “Gotta Have it; Oughtta Have it; Wanna Have it.” A poor man in her past needed a pair of shoes desperately, thus that was on his “Gotta Have it” List. This idea helped NancyLou keep her priorities in perspective.

This holiday season perhaps we all should keep this in mind, as most of us already have the “Gotta Have It” list covered, and mostly we dream about our “Wanna Have It” items. I hope those who are fortunate enough to have their basic needs fulfilled take the time to appreciate it, and help those who are less fortunate. Thank you, NancyLou, for sharing your wisdom and story with us.

Naples Annual Tree Lighting

Naples Main Street and the Naples Fire Department will host the Annual Naples Tree Lighting Ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 4-7 p.m. at the Singer Center located at the Village Green in Naples. A fun afternoon and evening is anticipated.

The activities, starting at 4 p.m., include crafts for kids with Kim Litchfield, chili, soups and hot dogs for sale, viewing of holiday centerpieces to be raffled – tickets for sale. Reading of ’Twas the Night Before Christmas, inside live entertainment all afternoon by Tracy Andrews and friends. At 6 p.m., the drawing for the holiday centerpieces will take place, and Santa will arrive courtesy of the Naples Fire Department. Make sure not to miss the tree lighting and reading of The Secret of Naples, Maine and Christmas caroling. Immediately following, head inside for brownies and hot chocolate and a photo op with Santa. For more information, contact Connie Eldridge at 831-0890. All proceeds will be used to supplement the town’s share of the causeway restoration project.

Comfort and Joy

Partaking in a warm freshly made meal while in the company of neighbors will certainly make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. Especially if the meal is complimentary. That is exactly what Christ Chapel in Raymond is offering on Christmas Day. Many of us take for granted celebrating with our family and friends on Christmas Day with the traditional festive dinner. For those without a place to go, Christ Chapel invites you to their place for a traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings at 2 p.m.

Holiday Craft Workshop a Hit

A big thank-you goes out to all the volunteers, friends and families that participated in this year’s Third Annual Craft Workshop held at Songo Locks School. The Parent-Teacher Group works diligently each year to bring this fun event together for the enjoyment of families. It’s really a great bonding experience for the kids and their loved ones. Kids were delighted at the opportunity to make one-of-a-kind presents for their family and friends. The well-organized event drew many families to Songo Locks School that chilly Saturday morning, offering fun and complimentary hot chocolate. What’s not to like, really?

Two of Santa’s Helpers lend a hand at the Songo Locks Holiday Workshop put on by the Parent Teacher Group at the Naples Elementary School. Pictured are third-grade teacher Paul Jacques and Corie DiFiore, mom of kindergartner Phoebe. Amy Berger, volunteer and member of the Songo Locks School Parent Teacher group, demonstrates how to make a snow globe at the recent 3rd Annual Holiday Craft Workshop hosted by the group last Saturday.  NancyLou Stiles celebrates her 70th year at a party held in her honor at the Top of the Hill Grill.