Dear Madame Zoltar

Hello, my frozen friendsicles! How are you? “Cold enough for ya?” They say it will warm up a little today, but I’ve been shivering since the snow stopped falling on Sunday. Who would have expected this after such a nice, warm autumn? Fickle, fickle Mother Nature sure can put us in a pickle. Even dear Ms. Beejay in Florida is cold. Oh my. I hope this doesn’t portend one of those bitterly cold winters. I’d ask Mom N., but you know how that goes. I never know what might set her off. If I innocently say the “wrong” thing, she might bury Racine in snow. Or ice. Or both.

What happened to our beloved and heroic Green Bay Packers this past Sunday? I was moved to tears by Aaron Rodger’s concussion. Oh dear, oh dear. It’s his second one this season. I predict that he will start in the game against the New England Patriots this coming Sunday night, but he will not play the entire game. Normally I would charge $25 for a prediction like that, but for my cherished Irregulars and regular readers of my blog, it is free. March on, o mighty Packers, forward to defeat your foes!

Although I complain about the cold and snow, one of the nice things about it is an event like this: the 2nd annual Winterfest on Monument Square in downtown Racine this weekend, December 17, 18, & 19. There will be a snow sculpting contest in which the public selects the winners (cash prizes). On Saturday, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photo opportunities, along with live reindeer. You can read about it here: http://racinedowntown.com/Winterfest.html . Unfortunately, I will not have a booth on the square, or anywhere else downtown, because of the usual prejudice against those who ply my trade. Nonetheless, I urge everyone to attend the seasonal festivities in downtown Racine this weekend.

While you’re down there, you can also check out the Mitchell Wagon Factory Lofts annual Christmas Shoppe, held on the same dates. The resident artists offer a variety of items for sale, including baked goods. (Oh my, I have such a sweet tooth!) Read more about it here: http://www.journaltimes.com/lifestyles/leisure/article_6b231942-039f-11e0-b2e8-001cc4c03286.html .

Events like those and Christmas concerts help put me in a holiday mood. It’s wonderful to see people come together around a tradition based on peace and love. If only it could last all year. How many times have we heard or thought that? Growing up, I was foolish enough to believe that I could gain in my powers until some day I could effect “peace on earth, goodwill toward men” on the world, whether it liked it or not. Of course, I can’t. It’s too big a job for any one person. But I do kind of enjoy spreading the joy one person at a time. It makes me feel better to have brightened someone’s day with a pleasant word or a helping hand. I often commiserate with people who deal with the public. I know how difficult that can be. This time of year can be especially grueling. That is why I strive to be courteous when interacting with others. Manners are the grease that allows society to function smoothly. I always try to keep myself well-lubricated.

Here’s a treat, “Christmas 1950,” that shows how Christmas was celebrated around the world 60 years ago:



Thank you, thank you, my wonderful friends and family for reading my blog. By the way, “Merry Christmas!” I hope that the holidays smack you on the lips with a kiss of fellowship and joy.

Send your season’s greetings to: madamezoltar@jtirregulars.com.

Bundle up for the cold, my lovelies. Watch your step. ‘Tis the season to break your butt, so be careful. Allow yourselves more time to do everything. Sometimes slower is better. Therianthrope!