Point of Vue - December 2023

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DECEMBER 2023 | VOL. 17 • ISSUE 12 | POVHOUMA.COM

CONTENTS | DECEMBER 2023 • VOLUME 17 • ISSUE 12

CHIC 10 CHATEAU Home For The Holidays

16 20

EXTRAS

BUDDY BALL BLISS

Terrebonne Parish Recreation's Buddy Ball League

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COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

Local festivities that define holiday spirit.

2023 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Shop Local this Christmas (Sponsored Content)

ON THE COVER

NOTE 06 PUBLISHER’S The Magic of Christmas

WORD, YA HEARD YULE

08 INTERVUE Say What?

[ yool ] noun Christmas, or the Christmas season.

28 THE OBSERVER Embracing the Eternal Gift

WORD ON THE STREET

30 WE SUPPORT A

Under the twinkling Yule lights, laughter filled the air as friends and family came together, creating memories that would be cherished for years to come.

HEALTHIER FUTURE 'Tis the Season to De-stress and Take Care of Yourself

During the Yule festivities, families gather, exchange gifts and share stories to celebrate the warmth and togetherness of the holiday season.

32 UNDER THE SCOPE Christmas, 1785

34 RENDEZVOUS

Where You Need to Be Around Town

Photo: Misty Leigh McElroy

VISIT US ONLINE: povhouma.com

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5004 IMPERIAL DRIVE | HOUMA, LOUISIANA | 985-529-8150

What is your favorite Christmas song?

"I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas" by Gayla Peevey

"Hallelujah"

by Pentatonix

PUBLISHER

CREATIVE

Brian Rushing

Lauren Hemstreet

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mary Downer Ditch EDITORIAL

Bonnie Rushing Editorial Director Isabelle Pinto

"Cozy Little Christmas"

by Katy Perry

Misty Leigh McElroy DIGITAL

"Jingle Jingle Jingle" from Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

Madison Pontiff

"Drummer Boy"

by Justin Bieber

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

John Doucet Jaime Dishman

CONTACT

Publisher: publisher@rushing-media.com Editorial: mary@rushing-media.com Creative: graphics@rushing-media.com Sales: sales@rushing-media.com

Copyright ©2023 Rushing Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of editorial and/or graphic content is strictly prohibited.

BUSINESS ADDRESS: Rushing Media, P.O. Box 5013, Houma, LA 70361 • 985.868.7515 Point of Vue magazine cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material such as manuscripts or photographs, with or without the inclusion of a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. The opinions expressed in Point of Vue magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Rushing Media, our employees or any of our advertisers. No employee or family member(s) of employees of Rushing Media are permitted to partake in any contests, giveaways or sweepstakes.

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE | MARY DOWNER DITCH • ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS Our son is turning 9 this December and we are currently holding on tight to the magic of Christmas. It has truly been a privilege to view Christmas through the eyes of a child. Amidst the twinkling lights and joyous laughter, there's an undeniable magic we experience during the Christmas season. It's the kind of enchantment that turns ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. The homes adorned with festive decorations seem to shimmer with a special glow that awakens the childlike joy in us all. Whether it's the anticipation of the arrival of Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, the heartwarming embrace of loved ones, or the collective belief in the goodness of humanity, there’s magic in every turn. In this season of giving and togetherness, we discover the true magic that lies in the simple pleasures of local festivities, shared moments, and the spirit of love that defines the holidays.

In this issue, we welcome you Home for the Holidays. Our very special Chateau Chic shares the delightfully decorated home of Kerry and Katie Lasserre. The Lasserre home features four fully decorated trees and over 50 smaller trees, made of all different materials and styles, placed around their cheerful home.

Enjoy the magic of the season through their beautiful decor starting on page 10.

In the true spirit of Christmas, witness the beauty of kindness and generosity as the Terrebonne Parish community comes together to support one

another through playing Buddy Ball.

This adaptive sports league through Terrebonne Parish Recreation allows children varying in ages and disabilities to enjoy baseball with the help of buddies. Experience the heartwarming joy that comes from making a positive impact on the lives of those around us starting on page 16.

makes Houma and Thibodaux unique.

We proudly bring you our 13th annual Holiday Gift Guide, starting on page 20.

This year, we hope you partake in the festivities that define the bayou area’s holiday spirit. Attend local Christmas parades, tree-lighting ceremonies, and other community events that bring neighbors together in celebration. From caroling to hot cocoa gatherings, feel the warmth of shared joy during this magical season.

Check out our Countdown to Christmas list of events on page 24. (Please note this is not by any means a complete list! Be sure to check out houmatimes. com/calendar to see any events that may have popped up after we went to press!)

By shopping locally, immersing yourself in holiday magic, and participating in community events, you'll not only create cherished memories but also contribute to the flourishing spirit of this vibrant community during the most wonderful time of the year.

We welcome you to explore the hidden gems of our local shopping scene, where quaint boutiques and familyowned stores offer a delightful array of one-of-a-kind gifts. From handmade crafts to local artwork, discover the joy of finding the perfect present while supporting the vibrant community that

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Remember that the true joy of Christmas lies not just in the decorations or events, but in the love, laughter, and shared moments that define this special time of year. Embrace the warmth of the season, relish in the joy of togetherness, and let the magic of Christmas fill your heart with everlasting happiness.

Merry Christmas, y’all! POV

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INTERVUE | SAY WHAT?

My holiday isn’t complete without…

HOLLIE — My

holiday isn’t complete without my mom and dad!

STAN — My

holiday isn’t complete without family and faith.

SIMONE — With 23 years of being in retail, my holiday is complete when I can toast to the ending of the holiday season!

ANGIE — My holiday isn’t complete without reflecting on the reason for the season and spending time with my family and friends.

I love to give lots of gifts. I strive to share the joy that I feel about the season. To wrap it up..I don’t feel that I’ve had a fulfilling holiday without a ton of Christmas movies, Christmas music, festive decorations, and Starbucks Christmas Blend Coffee.

BRANDI — My holiday isn’t complete without spending time with my loved ones.

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MADDIE — My holiday isn’t complete without my family, friends, a Pedro tournament and a bottle of wine to celebrate a break from school.

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HOME + LIVING | CHATEAU CHIC

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

BY MARY DOWNER DITCH | PHOTOS BY MISTY LEIGH MCELROY

1 We are blessed to again welcome you to the home of Kerry and Katie Lasserre!

The Lasserre family opened their doors for us in November to share their fall decor, and hosted us again in December to celebrate the holidays.

Katie describes their holiday style as rustic chic. “We love natural, woodsy elements mixed with rich olive greens and golds for our indoor decor. With the outdoor and boot bench decor, we lean more toward the traditional Christmas colors of red and green with a little bit of a whimsical touch.”

“This year, we have four large fully decorated trees and over 50 smaller trees, all made of different materials and styles,” shared Katie. “Our living room tree is a 10 foot tall pencil tree and the only flocked tree, which we decorate with white lights and elegant ornaments

mixed with some gold bells and woodsy elements. Our dining room tree is a 6 foot tall fir, which is decorated in masculine, woodsy ornaments and warm white lights. Our bedroom tree is a 7 ft full pine tree with a more feminine vibe and lots of white and soft green decor. Our back patio tree is also a 7 ft dark green pine tree with a whimsical snowman theme and lots of colorful bulbs to match the fun vibes of the outdoor decor.”

“Our favorite Christmas decorations this year would have to be our Santa canvases.

I was so excited to find beautiful portraits of St. Nick in beautiful shades of green to match our home decor,” exclaimed Katie. “My most sentimental piece of decor will always be my Santa and Mrs. Claus music box that was a gift from my grandmother. It no longer plays music, but it is always proudly displayed in my home as a reminder of my childhood.

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Kerry's favorite piece of decor would have to be his hand-carved cypress Papa Noel walking stick. It was a gift from an old friend and is displayed near his whiskey bar for the holiday season.”

“I love the warm and cozy feeling that the holidays bring,” shared Katie.

“Decorating our home for Christmas brings our whole family so much joy that we usually cannot wait until November to pull out our decor! We love transforming our home into a winter wonderland. The best part of the holiday season is relaxing together as a family, watching a Christmas movie, sipping on a cocktail or hot coocoa, and enjoying the glow of the Christmas tree. We do this 2-3 times a week throughout the months of November and December. It's our way to slow things down and truly enjoy the magic of the season.” POV

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Merry Christmas!

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No. 1 Living Room

No. 8 Bathroom

No. 2 Christmas Tree

No. 9 Bedroom

No. 3 Entryway

No. 10 Bedroom

No. 4 Dining Room

No. 11 Detail

No. 5 Detail

No. 12 Patio

No. 6 Detail

No. 13 Boot Bench

No. 7 Master Bedroom

No. 14 Front Door

Enjoy more photos at houmatimes.com/ publications/point-of-vue.

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BY ISABELLE PINTO | IMAGES PROVIDED This fall, Terrebonne Parish Recreation brought back its first-ever adaptive sports league, Buddy Ball! This league allows local children varying in ages and disabilities to enjoy a season of teamwork, camaraderie, and athletics with their "buddies" from local schools on the field.

Buddy Ball was first introduced in 2019 by Terrebonne Parish Recreation Director Jim Wendell, to the excitement and support of parents of children with disabilities across the parish. "We started this program in 2019 because really, other than a few Special Olympics programs, funding had been cut by the state for special needs children in our area," explained Wendell. "We wanted to introduce a recreation activity to local families that was inclusive to everyone, no matter what the diagnosis was—we would make accommodations for everyone who expressed a desire to play. So, Buddy Ball was started."

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During the Buddy Ball season, a special needs child who wishes to play in the league is matched with a volunteer from surrounding public and private schools, who would partner with the athlete to assist them in a game of baseball. "The buddy's job in Buddy Ball is really to meet the child wherever they are," explained Erica Lambert, mother of two boys in the program. "Whether the child is really in need of true assistance, or just someone to stand by in case something happens, the buddy will be there for them to offer support and make sure things run smoothly. Getting these local, neurotypical students involved with special needs kids in the community is so important, because it really shows them a new side of living with a disability."

Lambert explained that the buddies come from a wide range of backgrounds, including travel baseball teams and local high schools, or they may be a family member or friend of someone in the program.

Buddy Ball's inaugural season in 2019 proved a huge success, with the program participants having the opportunity to play five full games, culminating in a final game played against the Terrebonne Parish Council members and the Houma Police and Fire Departments. "Just to see the reactions from the kids was incredible. They were so happy to be able to

participate," said Wendell. "Unfortunately, however, we were not able to continue after 2019 because of the two years of COVID-19 shutdown, followed by the devastation of Hurricane Ida. Finally, in 2023, we knew we had to bring it back to the community. Even though we don't have all the adaptive facilities we would like yet, we wanted to give the families something in the meantime."

Buddy Ball 2023, to the excitement of the involved families, returned to Terrebonne Parish on November 6, 2023 with an opening night meet-and-greet.

Players were able to familiarize themselves with equipment and a quick batting practice, but most importantly, the athletes were able to meet their assigned buddies and start getting to know them. Buddy Ball currently has three games planned throughout the month of November, finishing with an awards ceremony planned for the players after their final game.

"Having a local, adaptive sports league has been huge for our family and my two sons—now we get to actually play with kids we go to school with, instead of driving to New Orleans," said Lambert. "A couple of my friends' children are actually our boys' buddies this season. They know them, they love them, and they have an amazing time out there. Buddy Ball is a really special time for us to come together as a community of special

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needs parents and realize we are not alone– there is a place now for us to thrive." The popularity of Buddy Ball is evident in the numbers as well, with between 30-40 special needs athletes and buddies coming out for the beginning of their 2023 season.

Kim Lousteau, whose 10-yearold daughter currently plays in the league, also explained what having the Buddy Ball program in Terrebonne Parish has meant to her family. "It is so important to get my daughter out to socialize—she loves going out and making friends, so it's wonderful to have her included in a sport with other people like her. Buddy Ball has absolutely been a benefit for us and our family. I know a lot of times, special needs children have to travel to New Orleans or Baton Rouge for adaptive programs—so we are extremely grateful to have it so close to us in our own parish."

Despite the 3-year-gap between the first and current season of Buddy Ball, the love from the local families and players has remained strong, and the program has plans to grow in the coming year to accommodate

even more children. "We are looking at trying to add some sports to our adaptive league to extend beyond baseball," said Wendell. "Whether it is modified basketball, or kickball, we want to have something every couple of months to offer our special needs community to come out and be included in recreation in the parish. Buddy Ball has been such a huge success, and we want to continue with that."

Alongside looking to offer new sports, Wendell explained that Terrebonne Parish is in the process of potentially building an adaptive sports park in Houma, similar to the Miracle Park fields in New Orleans and soon to be in Thibodaux. This padded park would provide a safe and accessible location for all special needs children, particularly those in wheelchairs or with equipment, to engage in recreation.

"After talking to lots of other parents with children in the program at our meetand-greet, it became so evident to me that this needs to be a year-round offering," said Lambert. "Being able to sit back and watch our children have fun with their

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buddies is incredible. If you are a parent of a neurotypical child, you go to their games, you sit in the stands, and you cheer them on—Buddy Ball is the time that we get to do that with our kids.

It is not often we get to have the joy of watching our kids be kids, because so often we are the ones out there and helping them.

Buddy Ball gives us a chance as parents to take pictures, relax, and watch them have fun. There are not enough opportunities like this for special needs children in Terrebonne Parish, so having Buddy Ball has really changed our lives for the better. There are 100% ways to grow this into a year-round activity for our local children, and that investment would be a huge positive for the whole community."

As Buddy Ball continues to grow in the coming years, it will not just touch the lives of those in Houma—but also those in Thibodaux, Morgan City, surrounding parishes, and more, who do not have access to adaptive recreation leagues.

Terrebonne Parish Recreation's commitment to the continuation of programs like Buddy Ball, combined with the support of the local parents and family, will ensure that adaptive sports leagues are here to stay in the bayou area—and will include more special needs families in the fun with each passing season, one child at a time. POV

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SPONSORED CONTENT As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving comes alive, and what better way to express your appreciation than by supporting local businesses? In our 13th annual Christmas gift guide, local businesses share a selection of unique and thoughtful offerings.

This holiday, let your gifts not only spread joy but also make a positive impact on the heartbeat of our community— our small businesses. Join us on a journey through this festive collection, where every purchase becomes a celebration of both the season and the entrepreneurial spirit that makes our community truly special.

Specialty Teas and Accessories

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BUDGET BLINDS

REINDEER ROWE

December 2, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Warren J. Harang Municipal Auditorium, Thibodaux The Reindeer Rowe holiday shopping event will feature over 30 local merchants all in one spot! Unique gifts, clothing and fashion items, as well as food will be available.

General admission tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door. Admission is free with the purchase of a Santa’s Land ticket.

A VISIT TO SANTA’S LAND

December 2 | Warren J. Harang Municipal Auditorium, Thibodaux

In the heart of our bayou community, festive cheer and joyous celebrations herald the arrival of the holiday season. As the calendar pages turn, we welcome the dazzling spectacle of lights, laughter, and shared moments.

From the spirited hustle and bustle of holiday markets to the serene beauty of tree-lighting ceremonies, our local holiday events help to ensure the spirit of the season is alive and thriving. Each event is a chapter in the story of our community, inviting us to come together and embrace the magic of this enchanting time.

Join us as we embark on a journey through the warmth and splendor of our local holiday festivities.

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A Visit to Santa's Land has become a beloved tradition for children in Thibodaux and the surrounding areas. Enjoy a family holiday event featuring Christmas themed crafts, games, and activities for children of all ages. The day is full of Christmas cheer where you can cozy up with a book with Mrs. Claus, create a special ornament, write a letter to Santa, and even take a picture with Santa himself. Snacks are also provided during the event. Tickets are required for every person that enters, and must be pre-purchased online. Your Santa's Land ticket is also valid for entrance to Reindeer Rowe - Thibodaux's Premier Holiday Shopping Event.

MARKET AT THE MARINA December 2, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Downtown Houma Marina

The market features 80 local vendors selling lots of local goods such as fruits, vegetables, bread, jams and jellies, meat and seafood, homemade body care products, and so many other amazing items that will make wonderful Christmas gifts! The market also features the Marina Sprouts Kid Club program sponsored by Terrebonne General Pediatric care, St. Matthew’s STEM Lab, Little Arts Studio, and more.

34TH BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

December 2, 7-10:30 a.m. | Vandebilt Cafeteria, Houma The Kiwanis Club of Houma Foundation presents their 34th Breakfast with Santa!

Enjoy delicious pancakes, sausage, coffee, milk and juice. There will be children’s activities and pictures with Santa. Tickets are $9 in advance or $10 at the door. Tickets are available from Kiwanis members and VCHS Key Club members.

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CELEBRATE THE CHILD CHRISTMAS EVENT

December 2, 2-6 p.m. | Rotary Centennial Plaza, Downtown Houma Spend the afternoon at the Rotary Centennial Plaza and the Courthouse Square for free kids crafts, Santa pictures, and concessions for purchase.

Stay to enjoy the Houma-Terrebonne Downtown Christmas Parade!

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HOUMA CHRISTMAS PARADE

CHRISTMAS AT LIVE OAK December 7, 5:308:30 p.m. | The Settlement at Live Oak, Thibodaux

December 2, 8 p.m.

Downtown Houma Enjoy the annual Houma Christmas Parade, as it travels from Terrebonne High School to Town Hall, through Downtown Houma.

SOUTH LOUISIANA COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA’S CHRISTMAS CONCERT December 3, 3 p.m. | St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Houma

REINDEER RUN 5K

December 3, 1 p.m. | Bayou Country Sports Park, Houma Each season of Girls on the Run comes to an end with a celebratory 5K. This Christmas-themed closing event gives program participants of all abilities a tangible sense of accomplishment.

Crossing the finish line instills confidence through completion and is a joyful moment program participants always remember! The run is open to the public. Registration opens at 11:00; Warm-Up at 12:45; Race starts at 1:00.

THIBODAUX CHRISTMAS PARADE

December 3, 2:30 p.m. | Thibodaux The annual Thibodaux Christmas Parade begins on the corner of Afton and Audubon on Nicholls’ Campus, continuing down Audubon. From there, the parade travels left onto Menard Street, moving towards Canal; left onto Canal Blvd., to 7th Street; left onto 7th Street, moving toward the park. The parade will end at Peltier Park.

“A Joyous Christmas” concert will be directed by Dr. Jason Ladd, Director of the Wind Section and Assistant Music Director at Nicholls State University.

Traditional Christmas carols and modern Christmas songs will be featured in the music repertoire. Admission is $10 for adults, and $5 for those 12 years and younger.

TREE FOR LIFE CEREMONY

December 6, 5:30 p.m. | Terrebonne General Main Lobby Join Terrebonne General for the Tree for Life ceremony, a special evening where cancer survivors, families, and friends remember and honor those who have been affected by cancer. With your gift of $25 or more, a personalized ornament will be created for your loved one and hung on the tree. Proceeds will support the regional Camp Bluebird program, an adult camp where cancer survivors can gather for sharing, educational workshops, and fun. The tree will be on display at Terrebonne General throughout December. The event is open to public participation. Light refreshments will be served.

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The Settlement at Live Oak is delighted to bring this free holiday event to the community! The event will have live music by Icarus Jones plus performances by local choirs throughout the event along with complimentary face painting, crafts, photo booth and visits with Santa (bring your cameras)! Pop-up shopping will allow you to get the perfect holiday gifts for your loved ones. Food trucks and tents will be on-site with food and drinks for sale.

HOPE RESTORED CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES

December 8, 5-9 p.m. | Houma Get into the holiday spirit as you explore beautifully decorated homes in our community. Experience the magic of the holiday season as you admire the twinkling lights and enchanting decorations. This in-person event promises to be a wonderful opportunity to spend time with friends and family, and get inspired for your own holiday decor. Tickets are $35 per person.

All proceeds benefit Hope Restored Pregnancy Resource Center.

COOKIES AND CRUMPETS December 9, 10 a.m. -12 p.m.

Nicholls Ballroom

Join the special inaugural family event in your Christmas best where you, your children and grandchildren will enjoy a unique Christmas experience with visits from Most Reverend Mario E. Dorsonville, St. Nicholas, Mrs. Claus and St. Nicholas’ special spiritual elves.

Guests will enjoy Christmas carols by We & Mrs. Jones, served hors d’oeuvres, Christmas cookies, citrus punch for kids, mimosas and champagne for adults, letters to St. Nicholas and much more!

Tickets are $50 for adults and $30 for children, while children under two are free.

SUGARPLUM SHINDIG

December 9 and 10, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. | Rendezvous, Thibodaux Calling all elves! Put on your baker’s cap and decorate gingerbread houses and Christmas cookies! In addition, guests will enjoy hot chocolate, mimosas, pancakes, photos with Santa and live entertainment. Tickets can be purchased online.

BAYOU CHRISTMAS TEDDY BEAR TEA

December 9 and 10, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. | Chez Felicite' The elves are busy preparing for the return of A Bayou Christmas Teddy Bear Tea at Chez Felicite'. This festive event will be the perfect holiday experience to share with children and grandchildren.

Enjoy a presentation of delicious holiday food, specialty teas, hot chocolate, and tasty pastries. Holiday characters will entertain and delight with music, story time and games all under the enchanted pavilion. All children in attendance will receive a special teddy bear gift followed by a teddy bear parade. Be sure to sit for a family photo in the beautifully decorated fairytale holiday carriage.

Tickets for adults are $50; children 2-11 are $35; children under 2 are free.

Reservations are required.

BCCM’S PAPA NOEL

is from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. and session two is from 6 p.m.- 8 p.m. on both dates. Tickets can be purchased online and are $8 for members, $10 for non-members, and $15 on the day of.

COOKIES WITH SANTA December 10, 12 p.m.

WoodmenLife, Houma

Enjoy cookie decorating, arts and crafts, jump houses, face painting, s'more making, Adopt-A-Vet tree, raffle and food (for purchase.) Pictures with Santa begin at noon. Please bring your own camera.

Admission is $10 per child.

CHRISTMAS WITH C.A.R.E.S.

December 11, 6 p.m. | Preston LeJeune Gym at E. D. White Catholic High School The E. D. White C.A.R.E.S. program is thrilled to invite you to a magical evening of joy and togetherness at Christmas with C.A.R.E.S.! This special event is open to all families with school-aged children who have exceptionalities and disabilities. Let's come together for an unforgettable evening filled with fun, laughter, and the true spirit of the holiday season.

DECK THE HALLS HOME TOURS

December 15, 6-9 p.m. | Thibodaux Celebrate the beauty of the season! Six homes in Thibodaux will deck their halls for guests to tour and enjoy, benefitting Light Up Lafourche! Light Up Lafourche is an organization that brings the magic of Christmas to homes in Lafourche Parish with lit and decorated trees.

Tickets are $35.

December 9 and 16, 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. | Bayou Country Children’s Museum Enjoy crafts, games, story time and snap your own picture with Santa! Session one December 2023 27 povhouma.com

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA COW

December 16, 8-10 a.m. | Chick-fil-A, East Houma Enjoy breakfast with Santa Cow, along with photo opportunities, crafts and more!

SUPPER WITH SANTA COW December 16, 5-7 p.m. | Chick-fil-A, West Houma

Enjoy supper with Santa Cow, along with photo opportunities, crafts, cookie decorating and more!

GRINCHMAS ON THE BAYOU

December 16, seatings at 7:30; 9; 10:30 a.m. | Ward 7 Citizens Club, Chauvin Merry Grinchmas! Enjoy this special breakfast with Grinch, DJ Rhett.

Breakfast includes green pancakes, hot chocolate, crafts, face painting, storytime and more. Tickets are $10 per child.

Photos with the Grinch are an additional $5. This event is a fundraiser for the South Terrebonne High School Band to perform in Disney World.

WINTER WONDERLAND December 16, 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Southdown Plantation, Houma

The Winter Wonderland family fun event features food trucks, live music, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, bounce houses, SNOW and much more! POV

FIND MORE EVENTS AT HOUMATIMES.COM/CALENDAR.

THE OBSERVER | BY JAIME DISHMAN

EMBRACING THE

ETERNAL GIFT The heartache of this world is real. There’s an aching undercurrent of grief in all of us, if we’re honest. There’s times when the grief - caused by loss - reaches the surface and peaks. We grieve, recover, and return to life. But the grief is always there. It ebbs and flows, sometimes more, sometimes less.

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AMENITIES INCLUDE: •MUSIC & MEMORY THERAPY •KITCHEN THERAPY •LIVE & LOCAL CONCERTS •IN-HOUSE THERAPY DOG •NOVEL EXCURSIONS •GAMES & CRAFTS

So many so close to us have experienced the deepest of griefs this year. Our heart has shattered with them. So many so far away are living in war-shattered homes and have lost people and places they love.

It can feel too big to understand and too much to bear - too close to home and too far to help.

I’ve sat stunned as loved ones share tragedies beyond comprehension. I’ve read news articles that make my stomach hurt.

The grief of this world can easily overcome the fragile capacity of this heart.

So when the angel said unto them: “Fear not; for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people” my heart leaps within. It feels what the shepherds must have felt - alone in the darkness, surrounded by bleating sheep, but approached by an angel who tells them of the greatest joy this world has known.

It’s a palpable joy, tangible with its intensity; so deep you can feel it all over.

Great joy.

It’s what the world ached for without even knowing they were aching. This great joy would come at a great price, with great sacrifice, with great pain.

But the story unfolding before the shepherds in the field would be the greatest story ever told.

The shepherds took heart and followed the star that led them to joy. Shepherded their herds all the way to where the baby lay in a manger, his small body hiding the greatest treasure of all time.

It’s a treasure we still seek. A joy we still want. A longing unspoken.

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Joy endures, even with the greatest of grief. It’s a joy that can’t be shaken, stolen or ruined. Because joy is different from momentary happiness. It’s of eternal significance, a forever gift that remains.

Simple shepherds being told of the greats of gifts. And here’s the greatest secret of the story - the shepherds run to find this great joy. The angels give them the

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news and they go. They seek the greatest gift the world will ever be given. This great joy announced by angels and welcomed by the world.

So this Christmas, I will do the same. I seek the One who gives joy that can’t be tainted by this world. I seek the One who restores all the broken bits and pieces. I seek the One who saves my soul.

It’s a seeking that promises finding. “Seek and you shall find” is a promise spoken long after the shepherds have finished their quest.

So I seek. Seek Him. Seek his promises. Seek his hope.

Seek his joy. Because I don’t have much of my own, so His will carry me through. And it does.

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In the face of all the losses of this world, His joy reminds me of the greatest of gifts. All is not lost, all is not hopeless.

He’s here and ready to bring joy.

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May this season bring you closer to the giver of joy, closer to the savior of souls, closer to the one who came to seek and save all of us who were lost.

May you look to heaven as the shepherds did all those years ago and receive good tidings of great joy. POV

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WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE | BY THIBODAUX REGIONAL HEALTH SYSTEM

'TIS THE SEASON TO DE-STRESS AND TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF With razzle-dazzle and merriment, the holidays typically bring joy and celebration. Sometimes, however, it opens the door to unwelcome guests such as stress and depression. But, you can learn to de-stress and take care of yourself this year.

We're making a list, checking it twice and gonna find out who's nice (to themselves). Here are some practical ways to relieve pressure from shopping, cooking, decorating, cleaning and more shopping.

Eat, love, and exercise.

With deadlines approaching, kids screaming and relatives arriving, it's easy to grab whatever comfort food is close at hand. Take a minute when planning holiday menus and include foods rich in complex carbohydrates, magnesium, and vitamins B and C to help lower stress and induce calmness.

• Sweet potatoes stimulate the brain to produce serotonin, a mood stabilizer • Spinach and beets are rich in magnesium, which reduces stress and anxiety • Avocados provide a good source of B vitamins to lower stress and boost mood • Citrus fruits, which are plentiful this time of year, along with strawberries, bell peppers, brussels sprouts and cauliflower are go-to vitamin C foods; broccoli packs twice as much vitamin C as oranges to support the immune system and help regulate levels of cortisol, the hormone that the body releases when under stress • Eggs, filled with an amino acid needed to produce calm-inducing serotonin, are a great way to start the day • Almonds contain high amounts of vitamin B, which also help the body manage stress; grab a handful or swap out for walnuts or pistachios • Chocolate anyone? A square of dark chocolate contains healthy flavanols to release feel-good endorphins

A daily walk, particularly through quiet natural areas, relieves tension and increase calmness in two ways. It helps you get in daily exercise and allows your mind to rest with a walking or prayerful meditation. You may discover that just five minutes outside changes your entire outlook on the day. If you already have an exercise routine, don't put it on hold during the holidays. Once you stop, it's more difficult to start again.

Having family and friends in for the holidays may stress you out. Instead of rushing around trying to make everything perfect for their visit, slow down.

Enjoy a board game night. Have deep, meaningful conversations. Bear hug someone you live with— child, spouse, roommate. Big hugs, not one-handed back pats, reduce your heart rate and cortisol levels to trigger warm, fuzzy feelings. Holding hands with someone you love can also make worries go away.

If not having family around depresses you, get together with friends. No friends around—then love on your pet. Stroking a furry friend can lower your blood pressure and stress.

Pamper yourself.

Chronic stress impacts your physical, emotional and mental health. Get in the habit of practicing monthly self-care rituals to help improve your energy, mood and overall physical health. "Me" time is the best gift to give yourself.

Here are a few ways to pamper yourself.

• Start a daily gratitude journal, writing down things for which you are grateful • Read a book or listen to relaxing music • Meditate or practice yoga • Get a massage, facial, mani-pedi or reflexology treatment • Soak in a bubble bath or solution of Epsom salt and lavender essential oils

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December 2023 30 povhouma.com

• Clear clutter from a drawer, your desk or a room to relieve stress and help you focus on tasks at hand • Take up a hobby • Be positive; hum Bobby McFerrin's "Don't Worry, Be Happy" song and take positive steps to balance your mind, body and soul • Take a "me" day and do whatever you want Unplug and get some sleep.

When's the last time you got a good night's sleep?

Without concentrated efforts and consistent sleep rituals, you're not likely to get one during the holidays either.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends that adults get 7 to 8 hours of sleep nightly. Follow a nightly routine by: • Setting the room temperature around 69–70 degrees before going to bed • Unplugging from screens—television included— for at least 30 minutes before bedtime; read a book, meditate or practice relaxation techniques to aid sleep • Keeping consistent bed and wake times, even on weekends; try going to bed at 10 p.m. and setting the alarm for 6 or 7 a.m.

• Not hitting the snooze button; studies show that repeated snoozing makes you feel more groggy Despite best efforts, if you're having a difficult time during the holidays, talk with your doctor or a mental health professional. They can help you with coping skills to get through the holiday season.

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UNDER THE SCOPE | BY JOHN DOUCET

CHRISTMAS,

1785

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

Most of us can remember Christmases Past without suffering the ghostly terrors of a Charles Dickens novel. But can you remember Christmases Past all the way back to the 18th century? If your name begins with “le” or ends with “-aux” or “-on” or anything that sounds like “A” (like mine), if your name is spelled other than how it’s pronounced, or if it’s pronounced differently west of the Atchafalaya, or pronounced differently up- and down-the-bayou, then this story will help you remember Christmas all the way back in 1785.

About two decades before 1785, France had ceded the vast Louisiana territory to Spain, and thus Spain began to develop a resident population and economy that would check British expansion in North America. The Spanish territorial government in Louisiana heard the particular plight of Acadian exiles who had been captured on Île Saint-Jean in 1758 and then deported to villages along the northwest coast of France. In France for nearly 30 years, these Acadians had hoped for repatriation into the mother country, but instead they were settled on unsuitable land in an unsuitable economy. Spain offered them settlement in Louisiana where other exiled Acadian families had already been settled.

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Beginning in May 1785, these families boarded a series of seven frigate ships and departed from ports in coastal France bound for Louisiana. Eventually, nearly 1600 landed in New Orleans and were offered grants of fertile farmland along south Louisiana waterways. Some chose settlement around modern-day cities of Lafayette and Baton Rouge, where earlier exiles had been settled since the 1760s. But nearly half of all 1785 Acadians chose to settle along the upper reaches of Bayou Lafourche and Bayou Terrebonne. The last of the seven ships landed in New Orleans on 17 December, just shy of Christmas. Thus, after hiding on Île Saint-Jean to evade the British, after being captured and deported across the Atlantic to suffer in the hands of post-war France for three decades, and after returning back across the ocean to Louisiana, they were all reunited in Louisiana by Christmas 1785. These settlers are the ancestors of PoV Country Cajuns.

Between May and December 1785, Acadian families who settled along Bayous Lafourche and Terrebonne had kept busy by clearing land, building homes, planting seeds, and fattening the livestock provided them by the Spanish. Of course, being devout Catholics, they most certainly celebrated Christmas. But a church and a permanent priest would not arrive to Plattenville for eight years and to Thibodaux for 35 years. A church in Donaldsonville was 36 miles away. So, how does an Acadian settler on the bayou celebrate the Christmas in 1785?

Early Acadian society was built on the extended community—for clearing, for planting, for harvesting, and even for the upbringing of children. So no doubt there would be one or more large Christmas gathering for families along the bayou.

Locations may have been announced by a bonfire of timber from the 40-arpent woods built atop the natural levee of the bayou. There, an elder or itinerant religious would have led a devotional ceremony, likely at midnight to represent the midnight December 2023 32 povhouma.com

mass Acadians were accustomed to.

After prayers, the Acadians would have sung historical carols in French, likely in their colloquial dialect. Then came a big dinner—a réveillon—where winter harvest like cabbage, turnips, carrots, and onions would be turned into meals. Maybe a “boucherie” of a hog or of wild game would be shared, along with baked goods cooked in mud ovens. The bayous would have provided the Acadians with fish— freshwater fish like mullet and catfish and bass—and some would be “boucané” or salted and given as gifts.

Gifts for children may have included a hand-carved animal figurine or a fishing pole fashioned from a twig and some twine. Sometimes, children were given a freshly-baked “naulet”—a large biscuit shaped like a little man— by their godparents.

The group of 1785 Acadians who settled on Bayous Lafourche and Terrebonne were the single largest re-settlement of Acadians in world history, as well as the final mass re-settlement of Acadians in America. Very little is known about their Christmas traditions before the Exile in 1755.

Fortunately, however, settlers tend to carry their traditions with them. We can we can imagine what the 1785 Acadians did for Christmas because that’s what their descendants in PoV Country still do today--like midnight mass, big meals, maybe a bonfire (but not this year!), and certainly extended family—and like the breads my grandmother would bake for me that were shaped like a little man. (Where else would she have learned that besides the tradition?) Traditions not only keep you connected to the past but they also keep the ghosts of your Christmases Past benevolent ones. So, now you can relax with your ghost and enjoy savoring your grandmother’s hot bread, avec un peu de beurre et de café, comme au bon vieux temps. POV

December 2023 33 povhouma.com

RENDEZVOUS | WHERE YOU NEED TO BE AROUND TOWN

Swamp Stomp Music Series: Francis Foret Memorial Tribute December 3, 1:30-7 p.m.

Chez Felicité, Raceland Join the memorial tribute for Francis Foret including an open Cajun music jam from 1:30-3:30 p.m., followed by the Swamp Stomp Music Series concert and fais do do with music by T'Canaille.

The Grand Finale

December 8-10 Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center Bringing the Battle to the Bayou, the Promoters of Battle In Bama are excited to bring The Grand Finale, presented

by Trapp Cadillac Chevrolet. Enjoy this unique Hot Rod, Car, Truck, and Bike Show! A weekend pass is $20. Kids 10 and under are free.

Luminate Houma

December 9, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Memorial Fountain, Downtown Houma The band Orange will join in the fun for this month’s Luminate Houma! This is a benefit for Richard Cheramie, a member of Orange. This event is free to the public with exceptional local talent; bring your fold-out chairs and get ready to enjoy the show. Food and drinks will be available at local establishments within walking distance like the Boxer & The Barrel, Mahony's, Milano's, Downtown Jeaux, Dominique's Bistro, Lumiere Blues & Jazz Bistro, & Bayou Terrebonne Distillers. In addition to

great food & a great show, the Bayou Regional Arts Council will be showcasing our local artists with their art as well.

Christmas at The Oaks of Thibodaux

December 9, 10 a.m.

The Oaks of Thibodaux Celebrate Christmas at The Oaks of Thibodaux! This kid-focused event features Cheramie Farms petting zoo, face painting, train rides, Christmas movies, pony rides, ornament decorating, and pictures with Santa. Adults can shop at the many craft booths while kids can enjoy the many activities! Adults are free with the purchase of a $25 child’s ticket.

Cajun Christmas

December 9, 1-3 p.m.

Bayou Delight Restaurant, Houma The merry elves at Bayou Delight have invited Santa to join the good boy and girls for food, pictures, and live music!

A Festive Christmas

December 17, 3 p.m.

Regional Military Museum, Houma The Houma-Terrebonne Community Band presents its annual Christmas Concert! This year’s concert is conducted

by Mrs. Karen Dusenberry and Mrs. Merita Petrie. The $10 admission donation benefits both organizations. POV

December 2023 34 povhouma.com

“Imagination is more important than knowledge.”

-ALBERT EINSTEIN

ARE YOU READY TO REIMAGINE YOUR BUSINESS?

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You Deserve the Best in Health & Wellness Services, So We Built the Wellness Center

A $100M+ Investment in Your Well-Being Sports Complex – Built to NCAA standards; includes a multi-purpose field with 8-lane track, tennis courts, beach volleyball and outdoor basketball court.

Fitness Center – State-of-the-art facility equipped with the latest technology and programs, aquatics, gymnasium and more; Certified and a top-ranked facility in the nation by the Medical Fitness Association; More than 1M visits since opening.

Playground & Education Initiative – Addressing childhood obesity through nutrition education and new playground equipment for numerous area elementary schools.

Sports – Keeping athletes safe by providing athletic trainers in high schools as well as Nicholls State University; Helping athletes grow and excel in sports through formation of competitive youth volleyball and swim teams.

Wellness Education – Numerous and expanding programs for individuals and

families on subjects like nutrition, weight management, diabetes, CPR and more.

WellFit – Integrating wellness into clinical care to address specific health conditions like cancer, orthopaedic conditions, chronic pain and diabetes.

Leading the Way in Health & Wellness for Our Region

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