THORNTON NEWS
by Cathie Miller

Five years ago on Christmas Eve, I lost my brother-in-law, my sister’s husband of 30 years. He left a huge hole in all of our hearts. It seems that he had always been a part of my life, my big brother. Christmas was his favourite time of year and I fondly remember Christmases spent with him and my sister’s family. It was only fitting that he pass away at this time of year, his favourite, which makes it only more bittersweet for those of us who were left behind. I remember working that busy day, at Canadian Tire, with a young kid who had had his favourite pen stolen by another employee. He just kept going on and on about it. The insanity of his tyrant broke the last straw that I had. I lectured him on the importance of “things” that a pen, not even a favourite, was worth the

way he was going on about it. I told him about family, friends, not to take life for granted and I asked him “What would you do if you were called in the middle of the night and told that your brother-in-law was not going to survive the day? Would your pen still be important?” Well, when I got home that evening, the news had come that Jim had indeed passed away. Although you know it is coming you are never prepared. Later, my daughter and I went to the Christmas Eve Service at Trinity United Church and it was hard to maintain my composure as the hymns were sang and the prayers were said. It was a beautiful service and when they came to the end and the singing of ‘Silent Night’ by candle light, the tears no longer could be held back. From that day on ‘Silent Night’ would always remind me of Jim and make me smile with fond memories. This Christmas Eve I will again attend the service at Trinity and say a prayer for Jim as I always do. I will remember others who have gone before me and pray for those who may not be here to celebrate another Christmas next year. I’ll be thankful for those little seemingly unimportant moments that make a family and Christmas special. Those are what make up our memories. Merry Christmas and many happy moments with family and friends.

Everyone is welcome to attend the Christmas Eve Service at Trinity United Church which starts at 6:30 p.m. If a later time would fit your plans better you can join the congregation at Cookstown United Church at 8 p.m. Since Christmas Eve is a Sunday, the regular service will be held as a joint service at Trinity United Church starting at 9:30 a.m.

On Saturday, December 16 the Thornton Firefighters

and Santa Claus made their annual rounds of Thornton wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and collecting donations for the food bank. It was beautiful weather for a long walk and everyone was in high spirits as they toured our streets waving and greeting the onlookers. To me it is the best parade around, short and sweet. Thank you Thornton Firefighters for bringing Santa Claus to town when he is so busy and for taking good care of all us during emergencies throughout the year.

Tonight, Wednesday December 20 is a special night at the library. From 7 until 8 p.m. a special “Night Before Christmas” story time will be held for the children and their families. The kids are invited to come to the library dressed in their pj’s and to bring their favourite bedtime pal to enjoy stories, fun, songs and surprises. The event is free for the whole family. Over the holidays, the library will only be open for regular hours on the following dates, Saturday, December 23; Wednesday, December 27; and Saturday, December 30. They will return to regular hours on January 2nd. The staff and volunteers at the Thornton Branch and all of Essa Public Library would like to wish everyone Happy Holidays.

You have until Friday to sign the kids up for the “Kids Wacky Winter Week” at the Thornton Arena from January 2 to 5. The cost is just $15 per day per child and $20 per day for bus trip days. The bus trip days are Wednesday with a trip to Base Borden for bowling and on Thursday they’ll go to Thornhill for the “Wonderful World of

Circus.” Fun activities will be held at the arena on the Tuesday and Friday such as skating, crafts, crazy bingo and a movie. Children ages 5 to 12 are welcome. To register call the Essa Parks and Recreation staff at 424- 9770.

From my house to yours have a wonderful Christmas and a very happy New Year. If you have any news, meetings, weddings, anniversaries or special occasions, I’d be happy to write about them. You can email me at thorntonnews@rogers.com or by telephone at 458-0869, or drop it off at 25 Robert Street.

Bye for now……