In the countdown to the holidays there are a number of different markers. To begin with there is the profusion of lights. The winters here are very dark, with the shortest day of the year being in the forefront of the season. Once that marker is past and winter is officially declared the days get lighter as we head into spring, and the time of renewal.

What marks your countdown to the holidays?

There are festivals, parades, Christmas markets, religious observances and more.

We have the end of the school term, which in my case results in more time with my grandchildren.

This year, again, the countdown to the holidays is marred by a resurgence in the number of Covid-19 infections, and the federal ‘ask’ that we not travel, nor gather in large numbers.

Covid-19 is taking the joy out of our little world. To share a little joy I’m posting video and photos taken with my drone of the magical lights at Rotary Park in St. Albert. It shows the winter dark . Thank you to Woodpecker Drone Services . I’d also like to thank the various artists on Pexel and Unsplash for their generosity in providing free images.

We wish you a merry Christmas, happy Hanukkah, Happy New Year and happy holidays wherever in the world you may be.