Merry Christmas

AND A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL FROM THE DITCH BANK.
As I sit here this morning, December 24, it is trying to storm and not succeeding very well. We do have a light sheen of moisture on the pavement out side and the temperature is in the high 30's to the low 40's and the wind is just barely stirring. However, at this writing, the bulk of the storm is still to the west of us in Arizona and is not supposed to be here for another two hours or so, so we can hope to yet see some moisture from all the clouds hovering over head. 
Speaking of stirring; I was watching the morning news and the reports were coming in of the several shoppers already out and about, making last minute purchases and I can only get my mornings exercise by rolling my eyes and shaking my head. After all these people have known that Christmas was coming for 364 days and to put off Christmas shopping to the last minute like that leaves one just having to wonder. With shelves getting empty, to some extant, the choices left would be minimal it seems to me. Some of the people interviewed said they were getting gift cards. Well, duh! if that is all you were getting any way, why not just do that weeks ago and save the last minute hassle.  And all those businesses staying open late and opening early to try to snag every shopper dollar they can, the frenzy has almost over shadowed the real purpose why we celebrate this time of year. 
I saw a post on face book this morning about people discussing just when Christ was born and one Christian lady commented that it doesn't matter when his birthday actually was, this is the time and tomorrow is the day that we celebrate His birth. So yes, amidst all the frenzy to find that perfect gift and the last minute rush to get every thing done, just pause and reflect on the real reason that has brought all this frenzy about and take a deep breath, and relax and reflect on who and what we are celebrating. Visit with family and check on friends and those who may be suffering or grieving at this time of year. As we go about our joyful way, remember that not every one is happy and joyful at this time of year. Offer them friendship and a balm if you are able to do so. A listening ear is often the best gift that some may actually want or need. A little of your time costs nothing or at the most very little, yet is so often over looked or neglected in the above mentioned frenzy to find the perfect gift.
When you reach the age that I have been fortunate to reach, you realize that the getting of material gifts are not always the best gifts. Your hope for family and friends to happy and above all healthy, and many are not, is often the best of gifts. I hope any one who may actually read this is happy and healthy and will have a great 2020.
AND THAT IS THE VIEW AND WISH FROM THE DITCH BANK
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR