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a note from the editor
Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your nightly prayer.” Maya Angelou
2021 is coming to a close, and we’re feeling a bit nostalgic. With everything that has transpired these last 18 months or so, it’s easy to lose sight of all we have to be thankful for. Although the pandemic still has its grip, it has loosened a bit; we have our health and many of us have been fortunate to reunite and gather with loved ones we haven’t seen in a while. We may be a little worse for wear but that’s OK. As we reflect on all the holiday traditions that were either virtual or absent altogether last year, we have reason to celebrate as they make their long-anticipated return. There’s the Christmas parade, which we missed last year, and The Nutcracker, marking its 25th anniversary this season at Georgia College. Then there are the newer traditions — Lights at Lockerly, the ever-popular Polar Express, pictures with Santa and so much more. Find all the details on these events and many others inside this issue of Milledgeville Scene. I can’t wait to share these traditions with my son and I hope you enjoy them as well. If shopping is more your thing, you’ll enjoy our special Shop Local section inside this issue. It’s a friendly reminder to support our local businesses this holiday season and all year long. Be sure to also check out our gift guide for the outdoors lovers in your life, featuring a list of merchandise locally available compiled by our outdoors columnist, James Pressley. There’s also a guide featuring some of the latest titles for the book-lovers in your life to fill their shelves this season. Then, Keep Milledgeville Baldwin Beautiful Executive Director Ashley Bacon shares a few tips that will help us all cut down on the gift boxes and waste all of our gift-giving can potentially add to our carbon footprint and eliminate some of the clutter in our lives. Of course, this season isn’t all about material things. If the past several months have taught us nothing at all, we’ve no doubt realized that it’s all fleeting and life can change ever so quickly. As we wind down this year, let’s continue reflecting on our priorities and focus on the people who make this life special. In that vain, writer Gina Towner shares in this issue how her family has come to appreciate experiences together over material gift-giving and the “things” that too often consume our focus. It’s an important lesson to remember and one I’m sure you’ll appreciate reflecting upon as well. Be sure to email us your story ideas — nlinder@unionrecorder.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more photos and story looks. Enjoy this issue, and more importantly, take time to enjoy the moment and the people around you.
Natalie Davis Linder 8
Milledgeville Scene | The Holiday Issue 2021
