Take time to appreciate truly valuable gifts

Frontiersman editorial board

With Christmas only two days away, most people have completed their Christmas shopping, card-writing and other aspects of the hurry scurry holiday season. Now comes time to sit back with family and friends and enjoy gifts more satisfying in the long-run than those under the tree.

For Mat-Su Valley residents, one of the most obvious benefits of living here is visible just outside the window. Plentiful snowfall has turned the Valley into a Christmas card of its own, with high peaks pink in sunset's alpenglow and tree branches laden in sparkling white.

Cross-country skiers, snowshoers, snowmachiners and other outdoor recreationists are reveling in wonderful conditions -- and the many trails available close to home. It's hard to beat the soul-healing satisfaction from a winter outing, whether it's walking the dog around the subdivision or a day-long trip on a Ski-Doo or skis.

Coming home to a crackling fire in the wood stove or fireplace makes it even better. For those who do make it home, that is. Winter carries as much danger as beauty for people venturing out, and the Valley has already been visited by tragedy this season. Avalanches. Thin ice. Blizzards. All are part of the unpredictable nature of winter, and a reason to value public safety personnel who willingly place themselves in danger to save others.

From firefighters to the Mat-Su Dive and Rescue Team to mountain rescue volunteers, those who leave the comfort of warm homes to help strangers in distress deserve tremendous thanks. Just Sunday evening, for example, firefighters from various departments, along with Palmer police, responded to a fire at the Daybreak Apartments on Hemmer Road. Their quick response certainly limited effects of the fire, with only two residents at the residence for people with disabilities sustaining minor injuries.

We all need to do our part, too, to keep ourselves and others safe. During the holidays, when parties are held to celebrate the joys of the season, people need to make sure they have a designated driver if they are drinking alcohol. Alaska State Troopers say it's one of the most dangerous times of the year, and extra patrols are on the roads for that reason.

The Frontiersman wishes everyone a safe and happy Christmas season, with the hope that all will be here to enjoy the season again next year.