It has been another gloomy weather week, with only a few sparse hours of sun shining. I understand that November was a record month for not seeing the sun. Can you imagine living in the North where it is dark most of the day for several weeks? It must be pretty depressing, but I guess you get used to it.

Things are gearing up for the Christmas season and there are events and concerts, with many different styles, of Christmas and seasonal music. There are also Santa Parades, tractor parades, still craft sales and many shows being held to get you to part with your money. It really is a wonderful time of the year, and you can forget the cold and snow while enjoying these things.

On Monday, Lorraine Ottolini and I attended the last Living Waters Presbytery, held at the Stouffville United Church. There were 76 ladies present, but about a dozen of us may no longer continue in this Presbytery. There will also be a name change to this church and it will no longer be called Living Waters. As mentioned previously, Zephyr, Sandford, Uxbridge, Goodwood and Epsom will be in what is presently called the Lakeridge Presbytery, in Bay of Quinte Conference. All these names will be changed as well. This Presbytery is much smaller in area; consequently being far less to travel to meetings. Time will tell how it works out. The UCW executive from both of the Presbyteries have been meeting for some time, and have tentative plans for the future.

On Thursday afternoon a huge number of friends and family gathered for a Celebration of Life for Ross Smalley at the Sandford Hall. The children and some grandchildren gave their remembrances, eliciting quite a bit of laughter. Travis sang as a solo tribute to his grandfather, “The Green, Green, Grass of Home”. I was sitting beside some relatives who had never heard him sing before, and I know they were quite impressed.

The Bethesda Reach WI met at Epsom United Church on Thursday evening. There were a number of visitors present and the guest speaker was Kate Johnson. Kate showed slides and spoke of her experiences in Austria, which was a trip which she won from the Junior Farmers. During her time there she also travelled to other nearby countries such as Holland and Germany.

On Friday, I was at the Salvation Army Kettle, and it was an interesting 2 hours as a number of friends wandered by and stopped to chat. The money ball was getting quite full when I left, and there were still several hours for collection to come. Thanks to all those who donated.

Karen Shreeve hosted a get-together for some ladies at her home on Friday evening. The party was hosted by a representative of Aloette beauty products.  A good time was reported by all.
The “Fantasy of Lights” was being assembled on the weekend, and it looks like it’s going to be another bumper show because there were very few vacant areas unclaimed. There appeared to be quite a few new exhibitors this year, outnumbering last year’s participants, which itself was a record. Xi Epsilon Upsilon is fortunate to keep our favoured spot under the big pine tree. Make sure you take a drive or walk through when it is officially opened.

When coming home from Elgin Park I noticed that there was a pair of trumpeter swans on the pond. I returned back on Sunday and was fortunate that the swans were right at the bank, and so I was able to get some close-up pictures. They are really hanging around later than usual; perhaps because some people are feeding them. There is a goose hanging around too. He is not with the large flocks wheeling around every day, but he is by himself, because he had a broken wing and cannot fly. He is also being fed, so I hope he survives. 

Karen and Jerry Popadynec hosted a meal for the Harwood family on Saturday, in order to show off and introduce their 2 newest granddaughters, Cecelia and Natalie who were born on September 28th and October 29th respectively. Congratulations to all.  Happy birthday to Ron Herrema.

The Bethesda/ Reach WI organized a trip to see Mamma Mia at the Town Hall in Port Perry and a large group of members, spouses and friends enjoyed this great show. The music was wonderful as was the acting. The only cast name I recognised was Cathy Christoff, who sang beautifully, and executed her part so professionally. That lady ought to be in the movies. Thanks to Barb Weese and Corinne Croxall for organizing this outing.

On Sunday church there was a joint service at Zephyr, and we welcomed back Reverend Eiko from her trip to Japan. As well as being the first Sunday of Advent, it was also communion Sunday and we prepare for the coming of Christmas.

On Thursday this week the UCW will get together for their Christmas meeting. There will be special music, a worship period, a craft time and a time to designate where our charity gifts might go. All ladies from the community are welcome to attend at 1 p.m.

Next Sunday, on December 9th, the service will be in Sandford at 10 a.m. To the Sandford people, please bring your White Gifts for the Loaves and Fishes Food Bank in Uxbridge. Following the service we will enjoy a turkey dinner with all the trimmings. The ladies might bring some dessert to top it off.

On December 16th, we are back at Zephyr and on December 23rd church will be held in Sandford. The format of this service is still being planned, as is the arrangements for a Christmas Eve service. Everyone is invited to attend these services with us.

Birthday wishes go out to my sister and Blackstock resident, Virginia Phillips, who turned 39 again this past Monday.

The Blackstock Co-op Nursery School held its annual “Breakfast with Santa & Friends”, on Sunday, December 2nd . Approximately 450 people attended the pancake breakfast, with several sitting for pictures with Santa courtesy of Rachel Callan Photography. Many enjoyed bidding on the more than 100 items in the silent auction as well as they enjoyed the book and bake sale. “Breakfast with Santa & Friends” is the largest annual fundraiser for the Blackstock Co-op Nursery School, a non-profit organization committed to providing a positive learning experience for children in the Blackstock and surrounding area for over 40 years now.

This week’s Euchre winners were: Alma Manns came in first place and also had 21 points in one hand.

Elmo Gibson finished in second place. Shirley Oldfield came in third place. Bryan Allemang finished in fourth place, and Pat Allemang came in fifth place. Shirley Oldfield and Keith Van Camp tied for the most lone hands.

The Blackstock Euchre Club meets every Tuesday evening in the Blackstock United Church Hall (except holidays). Play starts at 7:30 p.m. sharp, and everyone is welcome.


Congratulations to Holli and Brian Lee, who won Canadian Limousin Show Female of the Year. The award was presented to them at the Canadian Western Agribition in Regina last week.

To submit items for consideration in Blackstock Shorelines, please email them to: link2tammy@gmail.com by 12 noon on the Monday prior to publication date.

It was wonderful to be a part of a neighbourhood gathering in Epsom Utica as we celebrated the 2nd annual Christmas Pot Luck at the Utica Hall. Thank you to all for making this evening a success. I journeyed to Greenbank to see the Black Light Puppeteer show and it was an awesome production. Thanks to all who worked so hard to create this event. A welcome awaits you to the 2nd Sunday of Advent "Peace" at the Epsom church. It was exciting to be on the sidelines of both Uxbridge and Port Perry's Santa Claus Parade. The Christmas season must be here now. Email to: faye.eagesnest@gmail.com with your news items.

Caesarea Nestleton Euchre: Bill Churchill was first. Doug Day and Donna Traynor finished in second place. Doreen Sheehey came in third. Norm Lackner finished in fourth place. Carter Roberts and Brigitte Moase tied for fifth place. Doug Day, John Kay and Bill Churchill tied for the most lone hands.Ralph Swain had the low score. Nestleton Euchre meets every Thursday evening (except holidays) in the Nestleton Community Centre, located at 3971 Hwy 7A. Play starts at 7:30 p.m., and everyone is welcome.

The December 8th Folk Music Night at the Greenbank Hall features “The Marigolds”. For tickets or information please call (905) 985-8351.

Euchre continues every Thursday and Friday (none on this Wednesday, December 5th) until the end of the year. Starting time is 7:30 p.m., at the Greenbank Hall.

The Lions Club met December 5th, for its last meeting of 2018. In January, the new members will be installed. To join, please call (905) 985-2723.

The school fundraisers are always well supported, and the “Poinsettia” sales were the best yet. The “Chocolate Campaign” is winding down. “Crazy Hat Day” is on every Friday throughout December, with a $2 donation from hat wearers, that will go in support of  the Greenbank United Church Mission Team's trip to Guatemala, in April 2019. The school is most appreciative of the support given, as is the Mission Team.

Pauline Young is having a Christmas Craft Sale on Saturday, December 8th, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at her home, located at 1479 Cragg Rd. East. This is a chance to shop locally.

I am sorry to report the passing of Evelyn Heron, nee Ianson, of  Peterborough, on Saturday, December 1st, after a brief illness and hospital stay. Evelyn is the daughter of Jim and Dorothy Ianson, and sister to Shirley Lee and Frances Walker. She grew up in Greenbank, attended the Greenbank Public School, and Port Perry High School. She married Keith Heron of Wick, where they farmed for a while before moving to Norwood, and then to Peterborough after the death of Keith. A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, December 7th, from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. at  the Ashburn Funeral Home, in Peterborough. Sincere sympathy is extended to Evelyn's children Kim, Cathy, Michael, and to her sisters Shirley (Murray) Lee and Frances, and to their families and extended families, and friends.

We remember those dealing with health issues. Those who are known to me are: Ken L., Irene Sutch, and Allison. To those who are shut-ins, and those unknown to me, we wish them well.

The Greenbank Blacklight Puppeteers once again “wowed” the audiences with their Friday and Sunday performances to a full audience, both times at the Greenbank Church. They will perform again this coming Friday, December 7th, following the Sunday School children's Christmas concert program at the Greenbank United Church, starting at 7 p.m. Come and enjoy listening to the 3 – 10 year olds, and our youth, as we celebrate the reason for Christmas; Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love in Jesus.

Singer Naomi Bristow, (Country, Gospel & Yodeller) returns to the Greenbank Church on Saturday, December 15th, at 7 p.m. to perform her Christmas Concert. Admission is by donation at the door, with proceeds going to the Church Accessibility Fund. For information please call (905) 985-4504, or (905) 985-2090, or go to this website address: www.greenbankchurch.com.

Anyone wishing to place a poinsettia or flower in the sanctuary in memory of a loved one at Christmas, please contact Valerie at (905) 985-3586, or email valerieaprilhunter@gmail.com by December 15th.

The greeters at the Greenbank United Church this past Sunday were Joanne and Ron Doble. They welcomed everyone to the Advent I service.Vetha Pashley lit the Christ Candle and the candle of Hope, and also read the Scriptures. The pianist was Valerie Hunter who accompanied the singing of the hymns and the choir's anthem was “Still, still, still,” which was lovely.

Minister Stephanie talked to the children about the meaning of Advent and their hopes. Each child was given a wreath (Advent wreath) with a star sticker to represent Hope, and with which to add symbols of Advent 2, 3, and 4 as each week arrives.

The Mission Minute, with Marita Parsons, was a thank-you to our Ministers who are also supported through M & S givings, to go towards training, and continued education.

A skit entitled “Review Board Weekend In Heaven” was presented by four readers. The angels were played by Doug Ferris, Doug Watson, Hillary Balmer, and Carla Puckrin. They met with God, played by Juli Myers, to discuss the church year and more. This is a part of Stephanie's message to us of the coming of the Christ, and that the “Word”, given to all nations, and written in most languages in “ink”,  can be seen thorough translations of the Bible, and by the choices made by mankind.

Happy Birthday wishes to go to projectionist Doug Watson, and any others who celebrated last week.

The Baird family Christmas group gathered in the church Hall for their extended families' time together on Sunday afternoon.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas when you are traveling after dark.Some homes have awesome light displays. Thank you to the six ladies that decorated the Seagrave Church, for the festive season, into its magnificent beauty, also a thank-you to the three men who did the set up, and lugged the decorations into the sanctuary. Five people represented the Seagrave Church and walked beside the float, for the local churches, in the Santa Claus parade on Saturday. Forty-Seven shoe boxes have been collected for Operation Christmas Child and will be delivered to Woodstock on December 4th. Great job everyone.

The Greenbank Blacklight Puppeteers' performance was excellent. On Friday, December 7th  at 7 p.m. it will be the last performance in conjunction with the Sunday School concert. It is worth the drive to Greenbank. All kids are invited to join us on Sunday December 9th   from 9.15 a.m. – 10.30 a.m. at the Seagrave Church for a science learning experience on rocks and minerals with geologist Cathy. Please R.S.V.P. by December 7th to nix5.seagrave@sympatico.ca or ttnbtaylor@hotmail.com. It’s fun and free.

Barb Martyn and Rick McAskill were greeters. Eleanor Sturman and Carol Coleman were the Advent readers and lit the first candle of HOPE of the season. Carol was the scripture reader. Tara Taylor read the Mission and Service report, and mentioned a book written by Reverend Janet Stobie called “A Place Called Home” which is about a little girl and her challenges being homeless in Lindsay. This book is available to purchase. “The Youth and Young at Heart” story was about the season of Advent. Advent means to come, as we await the arrival of Jesus in four weeks.  Each child was given a felt wreath and a star of Bethlehem to attach, and each week will be given a symbol of Advent. The choir sang, “Mary, did you know?” It was beautiful. The sermon was entitled “Review Board Weekend In Heaven” which was a skit of an angelic committee and God. David Hooker played God, and the angels where played by Richard Charron,Tara Taylor, Wendy Hughes and Betty Somerville who were all dressed in white, and wore halos. God asked his angel committee for suggestions as to finding a new form of communication that would reach as many as possible on earth.The angels had many suggestions, and finally God eagerly said, " I will return as INK”. The meaning being that by being “INK” He could spread his word in print inclusively to everyone.The communion, “The Banquet of Hopeful Expectation”, was very meaningful and the communion cloth donated by Darlene Hallett had its debut. Those wishing to place poinsettias in memory of loved ones please contact Diane Puckrin at (905) 985-2489 for names to be in the bulletin before December 15th.

December 2nd to December 23rd at 9.15 a.m. Please bring a non-perishable food item or paper product for the Scugog Food Bank. Box at the back of sanctuary.

December 2nd to December 30th at 9.15 a.m. We are looking for donations of clean, gently used towels, bedding and travel size toiletries to be donated to “A Place Called Home” in Lindsay. Please put them into the box at the back of sanctuary.

December 8th at 8:30 a.m. Men’s Group Breakfast. All are welcome.

December 11th at 12 p.m. Christmas Out To Lunch. Turkey Luncheon with all the trimmings, dessert, refreshments and entertainment. Free Will Offering and donations to the Scugog Food Bank will be appreciated. If you wish to reserve a seat at the table contact Jean at (905) 985-9921 or grammiejean2010@hotmail.com by December 9th. A sign up sheet is in the vestible for food items.

January 19th at 7.30 p.m. Joyful Noise Choir coming to the Seagrave Church. Enjoy the music of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s and sing along or dance in the aisles. Tickets are $20. Contact Rick at (905) 985-8383, Keith at (905) 985-2489 or Linda at (905) 985-8856. Followed by light refreshments and treats. If you wish to rent the hall, call Rick at (905) 985-8383, or barberick@sympatico.ca. If you have an item for this column, call Jean at (905) 985-9921 or grammiejean2010@hotmail.com

Sincerest condolences go out to Marlene Trewin and family on the loss of her mother, June Bray, who passed away on November 22nd at the age of 92.

The Blackstock Co-op Nursery School’s (BCNS) annual 'Breakfast with Santa & Friends' returns this Sunday, December 2nd, and will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Blackstock Recreation Centre. The morning will include a pancake breakfast for everyone, a children’s colouring and letters to Santa table, and an opportunity to have photos taken with Santa himself by local Blackstock photographer Rachel Callan. The book and bake sale returns along with the always popular silent auction. A variety of exciting items are available to bid on including overnight accommodations at The Fairmont Royal York Hotel, St. Anne’s Spa, Nestleton Waters Inn, and Great Wolf Lodge. In addition, there are several local businesses and vendors that have donated a variety of products and services, including three-month memberships to both Anytime Fitness and Kalsamrit Martial Arts Gym in Port Perry, as well as lift tickets to Brimacombe Ski Hill, just to name a few. Prices are $5 for an Elf plate and $10 for a Santa plate. This is the largest annual fundraiser for the Blackstock Co-op Nursery School, a non-profit organization committed to providing a positive learning experience for children in the Blackstock and surrounding area. No reservations are necessary. Cash will be accepted at the door. Donations for the Operation Scugog Food Bank will also be accepted at the door.

For more information, please call: (905) 986-4585 or email:blackstocknurseryschool@gmail.com.Visit BCNS’s Facebook event page at: https://www.facebook.com/events/2197216180553884/?ti=ia. This week’s euchre winners: Elmo Gibson came in first place and also had the most lone hands. Doug Day came in second place. Minnie Ayling came in third place. George Wind and John Kay shared fourth and fifth place and Jo-Ann Wind and Keith Van Camp tied for the mid score. The Blackstock Euchre Club meets every Tuesday evening in the Blackstock United Church Hall except on holidays. Play starts at 7:30 p.m. sharp, and everyone is welcome.

To submit items for consideration in the Blackstock Shorelines, please email them to link2tammy@gmail.com by 12 noon on the Monday prior to publication date.

The snow has practically all disappeared with the return of mild temperatures on the weekend, and Saturday's rain. The concession roads are terrible to drive on with all the mud and potholes. Maybe paving roads should be the first start by our new council, as they plan for their 2019 budget.

The Lions served breakfast with Santa on Saturday at the Hall, and the children were treated and received gifts. Euchre at the Greenbank Community Hall is on the second and fourth Wednesday, and every Friday, of the month, at 7:30 p.m. However, on Wednesday, December 5th, euchre will be cancelled.

The churches of Scugog are putting a float in the Port Perry Santa Claus Parade, and Greenbank participants are asked to be at the fairgrounds at 4 p.m., on Saturday, December 1st, to join this group in the parade.

The Black Light Puppeteers will perform at the Greenbank church on Friday, November 30th, at 7 p.m., Sunday, December 2nd at 6:30 p.m. On Friday December 7th  the Sunday School Concert and Puppet Show will be performed at 7 p.m. Donations will be appreciated.

December 15th, a Christmas Concert with Naomi Bristow will be at the Greenbank church at 7 p.m. Naomi's June concert was great, and we look forward to her return. Admission is by donation at the door, with proceeds going to the Greenbank United Church Accessibility Fund. For information call (905) 985-4504, or (905) 985-2090, or go to the website at: www.greenbankchurch.com.

Thanks to those who have donated and continue to give to the 'Accessibility Fund'. It is well on its way to reaching it's $200,000.00 goal.

December 5th . There will be a potluck meal and meeting. The Fidelis unit invites guests to join them at 12:30 p.m. for a meal and the program. Donations for the Food Bank are welcomed. The Evening Unit U.C.W. meets at 6:30 p.m. for a potluck at the church. Please bring toiletries for the Denise House.

The 'Messiah' is coming; G. F. Handel's Masterpiece, conducted by Thomas Baker with 100 voice chorus and professional orchestra will be on Monday, December 17th and Tuesday, December 18th at 8 p.m. at the Trinity United Church, on First Avenue, in Uxbridge. An offering to defray expenses will be received at the door. (suggested donation of  $25). Advance tickets are suggested, and may be obtained from a chorus member or at Blue Heron Books; Presents, Presents, Presents, or Brian J. Evans Financial Services, all located in Uxbridge.

On Sunday, birthday wishes were sung to Avary Conard, Carlie Doble, and Jim Gibson. After church, Jim was totally surprised when he arrived home to see he and his wife's five daughters, with their families, greet him with lunch and gifts to celebrate his special November 26th birthday.

At Church on Sunday, Juli Myers happily and gratefully announced that the Mission Team has surpassed its fundraising goal of $35,000, and will now work on sewing projects, and other items, to take to Guatemala in April, 2019.

Greeters on “Reign of Christ Sunday” were Tom and Valerie Hunter and grandchildren Hunter and Carlie Doble. Young Faith Myers lit the Christ Candle. Poinsettias, donated by Deborah Gross – Markham Home for the Holidays, brought a touch of Christmas to the sanctuary. Doug Watson provided the music ministry with his solo and by playing the guitar.

Scriptures were read by Peter Duivesteyn. A message that Peace comes through love; Love conquers hate, and trust conquers fear, and all are part of God's plan for the world.
Next Sunday, at 11 a.m. is Advent I and Communion service for all.

Then at 3 p.m. Sunday December 2nd, Minister Stephanie will have a service at the Port Perry Villa.

Thursdays from 1 to 2 p.m., please join in a guided meditation at the Greenbank United Church with Stephanie.

To contact the minister please call (905) 718-8086, or email: ssutchrichmond@gmail.com.

Looks like we have had our January thaw. It’s hard to believe we had enough snow to get the plows out, and now it is gone and we are having rain.

The Seagrave Community sends prayers for a speedy recovery to Earl Durward who is back home after surgery. Earl brings his horses and wagon out on Christmas Eve to take people caroling around the village.

Condolences go out to Diane and Keith Puckrin on the recent passing of Diane’s brother, Eldon Carter of Oshawa.

I received word this week that Sylvia Wanamaker passed away on November 2nd. Sylvia was the eldest daughter of Glen and Marjorie Wanamaker, and was raised on the Somerville farm.

Wyn Hughes visited the birthday box. Evelyn Pike helped Minister Stephanie light the Christ Candle. John Olivero was the Scripture Reader. This Sunday was 'Christ the King Sunday' and the message shared was that Jesus was known as the Prince of Peace. We have been called to be disciples of Jesus. Tara Taylor gave the Minute for Mission report. Evelyn Pike led the 'Ukelele Band' singing Happy Birthday in French to Wyn Hughes. Those in the band are Evelyn, Jonathon Feyen, Tara Taylor and Bill Richmond. Minister Stephanie ministered at her first 'Healing Service' on Sunday evening which was very calming and peaceful.

November 28th at 7 p.m. - 'Sharing of our Vision' meeting for the future of our churches at the St. Andrews United Church in Sunderland.

November 29th at 7 p.m. - Turkey Supper Review Meeting. Everyone is welcome.

December 1st at 4 p.m. Santa Claus parade in Port Perry. There will be a ministerial float and we are invited to walk as a pastoral charge church group alongside the float. Meet at the fair grounds.

December 2nd to December 23rd at 9:15 a.m. Please bring non perishable food items or paper products for the Scugog Food Bank. Box at the rear of the Sanctuary.

December 2nd at 9:15 a.m. - 1st Sunday of Advent and Communion Sunday.

December 2nd to December 30th at 9:15 a.m. We are looking for donations of clean, gently used towels, bedding, and travel size toiletries to be donated to 'A Place Called Home” in Lindsay. A box will be at the rear of the sanctuary.

December 6th at 7 p.m. - 'Let's Talk About'. Note change of date.

December 8th at 8:30 a.m. - 'Men's Breakfast Group'. All are welcome. 

December 9th at 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Interactive science presentation. 'Science in the Church Rocks', event which will be about rocks and minerals and is designed for children. Bring your friends.  December 11th at 12p.m. 'Christmas Out To Lunch.' Turkey luncheon with all the trimmings, dessert, refreshments, and entertainment. Free will offering and donations will go to the Scugog Food Bank, and is very much appreciated. If you wish to reserve a seat at the table contact Jean at (905) 985-9921 or grammiejean2010@hotmail.com. A sign up sheet for food items is in the vestibule. If you wish to rent the hall, call Rick at (905) 985-8383 or barberick@sympatico.ca. If you have a news item for this column, call Jean at (905) 985-9921 or email to :grammiejean2010@hotmail.com.

I would like to provide a reminder that the 2nd Annual Community Christmas Pot Luck Supper, at the Utica Hall, will be on Sunday, December 2nd at 6:30 p.m. Please consider this your invitation to join together in a family setting with neighbours.

That -19 degree temperature last week, on November 21st, produced few cold days and broke some long-time held records.

The 'Candy Cane Cafe Talent Night' last Wednesday, set up by the P.P.H.S. music department, was a great musical success. Our youth are so talented. Thanks for sharing this evening.

The Durham District School Board has started a process which would see Epsom Public School sold. It's sad to think that something that contains so much history and memories between it's walls can just be sold.

The combines rolled into the Canadian Foodgrains fields this past week to harvest the corn crop which yielded 285 tons from 70 acres. Many area farmers were also trying to finish their harvest which had Reesors and Stouffville elevators shut down early on several days. A huge thank-you goes out to all who helped, in any way, for product, supplies, crop planting, harvesting, and getting it to the elevator. This is a real mission that helps around the world. About 100 people gathered at the Sandford Hall on Friday evening to celebrate the Durham West 4H year. Congratulations go out to all the members who received awards, and a special thank you goes out to the leaders who spent many hours with the youth. We wish Brianne Meek all the best as she retires as a 4H member.

This is the beginning of Advent Season- the season of waiting. A welcome awaits at the 11 a.m. service each Sunday at the Epsom church.

Sincere sympathies go out to the Youmam Family from the Utica and Epsom communities. Matt's presence will be so missed.

To submit news items, please email faye.eaglesnest@gmail.com.