Her low, blinding illumination makes it hard to hide from the weathered truth. She is stingy with her gifts, a coy sun, sometimes barely peeking above the trees. The weather is sharper, the light cooler. It filters through the forest like watery diamonds. When the winter sun is around, it is time to get cozy.
I am finding myself getting lost in the cliché levity of the holiday season this year. It feels like escapism into a snow globe. I will even wear the sweater. Twinkle lights adorn my windows, their fine LEDs so subtle they have spent the whole year there with little detection. I am even binge watching Finding Mr. Christmas, the most bizarre Hallmark elimination game show based on the search for their next leading man. It is as ridiculous, and as shirtless, as you might imagine.
I have done the majority of my shopping, mostly shopping local, particularly at the businesses right here in Tlell. Our Tlellian shopkeepers are amazing and generous. My son and I started our tour at Coco Cabin, Berry Wijdeven’s adorable chocolate and coffee shop over the little bridge on Andrews Place. Coco Cabin also carries unique novelty items and art pieces that make lovely gifts. Go for the magical walk through the woods alone.
With coffee and hot chocolate in hand, we continued our trip to Ranch Feeds, where we found everything we needed to make our furry friends’ Christmas the very best. A particularly solid find was a board game called A Dog’s Best Friend, billed as a game the family dog can play. I look forward to seeing whether my sister’s dog has any board gaming skills. I am quite certain that my dog does not.
We then strolled over to the Tlell Fly and Tackle store, where an abundance of quality outdoor gear and gadgets awaited. I wanted all the Yetis, in all the colours. You can also find Tlell River Brew to put in those travel mugs, and stickers to personalize them so no one steals yours.
After that, we drove to Sitka Studio and were delighted by the variety of handcrafted gifts available. Beautiful art cards, books, and even art supplies are there to tempt, along with coffee, teas, and everything you would ever need to enjoy those beverages.
Next was Crystal Cabin, with its beautiful gems, jewellery, and fine art, and with Charters Food Truck right in the parking area. Shrimp tacos and delicious poutine were sampled, and we got so excited that we ended up heading straight home to enjoy our spoils.
The following day, we went to Seas the Day Cafe for brunch and enjoyed wonderful food and tasty coffee, saying hello to neighbours along the way. We bought some snacks and essentials and picked up the mail.
On top of providing a great way to spend an afternoon or two, each business donated door prizes for the Tlell Winter Feast held this past Sunday. For the first time, it was hosted at the Haida House of Tllaal, allowing us to wear our good shoes.
Gnarly Burl, Funk It!, Sea Hag Studio, and local artists Lynn Lee and Kim Larocque also donated prizes for the special night. Thanks to the generous support of Gwaii Trust, the North Coast Regional District, and the Haida House, we were able to host Tlellians in comfort and style. Santa came to visit, songs were sung, and the incomparable joy of a Tlellian potluck was enjoyed by all.
So come visit. And if you want a little sparkle and fun, join us on New Year’s Eve at the Fall Fairgrounds for a night of dancing, featuring the sounds of Out of the Blue and, later, yours truly, DJ Janet Planet.
Until then, here is wishing you all a safe and cozy holiday season.
