This is truly a busy time of the year. We’ve already passed the first major event in November with the Presidential Election concluding after two very long years, and I’m sure this was a year for the record books with over 100 million people casting their vote! Regardless of whether you liked or hated the candidates, I hope everyone who could vote-did so. That is what makes our nation great, the ability to choose our leaders that will represent each one of us, not every country has that chance to vote for their leaders. Our nation’s founders and men and women in uniform have time and time again fought to defend our freedoms including our right to vote. Speaking of which, Veteran’s Day is this Sunday (November 11^th), so regardless of your political allegiances or lack thereof-you should thank our military members, past and present for their efforts in preserving freedom every chance you have.  So please thank a veteran!

This month also jump starts the holiday season, in my opinion, this truly is the greatest time of the year. I just have this sense about me that says I should be happy. Even if it’s snowing and dark before 5 PM, this time of the year just seems to be a more cheerful than the rest. With the holiday season comes the inevitable holiday shopping season. It’s a time when stores get more crowded, lots of deals for the latest and greatest toys and gadgets, and commercials blanket the airwaves trying to convince everyone that their product is the best gift for everyone on your list.

How do you know a gift will be used or cherished for years to come? Well you could make it yourself! Homemade gifts are often kept around for sentimental value and if you have a knack for crafts you could make your relatives a new centerpiece in their art collection, which will stick with them for a long time to come. Another solid option is to give gifts of experience, plan a white water rafting trip for the adventurer on your list or take your special someone on a weekend getaway. Experiences will be truly appreciated and memorable.

As you begin to get into the holiday spirit and begin your quest to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list, keep the Parks and Recreation Department in mind. You could sign up your child for Biddy Ball or Quickstart Tennis, take your sister to a cooking class, get your hard-to-shop-for nephew a Teen Passport, and even give the gift of continual opportunities for health with one of our many Memberships. All of these will present the challenge of learning a new skill, socializing with friends and getting that elusive work-out in.

You can give the gift of experience with any of our activities and don’t forget to stop in and get a head start on your shopping at the Fall Arts & Crafts Cornucopia on Saturday, November 17^th. While browsing the many vendors, ask the friendly front desk representatives about programs and activities that may be of interest to you or those on your list.

I hope everyone has a safe and joyous holiday season.

Happy Holidays and Thanks For Reading!

Carl

Carl Blake is the Recreation Specialist of the Department of Parks and Recreation. He can be reached at 703.335.8872 or via email at c.blake@manassasparkva.gov

Community Matters is a blog created by the City of Manassas Park Department of Parks and Recreation. The blog features program updates, announcements of new services, special event notices, or information of general interest.