We are rapidly approaching Christmas and a New Year and everyone’s spirits are high. That’s what this time of year is all about.

Family get-togethers are in the offing for many families so they can catch up on what’s going on with each other and exchange presents, as well have a good meal to which many of those attending contribute favorite dishes.

Also, many families will attend church together, especially the Christmas services and then the midnight services to welcome in the New Year. It would be nice to get that many people in the pews for the regular Sunday services.

After Jan. 1 passes, it’s back to work – and trying to lose a few of those pounds added during the holiday season.

Or is it really? Down here, Mardi Gras begins after the first of the new year. The parades in New Orleans start on Feb. 15 in 2014 for this Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday falls on March 4.

Picayune’s Mardi Gras parade is scheduled to roll on Feb. 24, which should be lot of fun for those who don’t want to travel to New Orleans or the Gulf Coast and fight all the traffic and crowds those locations draw.

Didn’t someone somewhere say at some time that winter is supposed to be dreary and joyless?

Who ever said that must not celebrate Christmas and the New Year and must be from some place other than the Deep South.

Have we mentioned the hunting seasons that come this time of year and the camaraderie at hunting camps? No? Well, that’s a column for another day.

Just know that the winter season doesn’t have to be dreary and joyless. In fact, it’s a season some look forward to.