We are fortunate to be immersed in a very diverse community here in Jamaica Plain. In this season of darkness, as the New England cold settles in around us, there is also an opportunity for celebration as many of us participate in winter holidays. Some of us celebrate Christmas, Chanukah, Solstice, Kwanzaa. While each has roots in its own traditions, they all share some common themes – bringing light into the winter darkness; honoring life, creation, and the bonds of family, friends and community.

In the spirit of the season, the Eliot School opened its doors on Saturday, December 17th to children and accompanying adults, and invited them to create their own holiday ornaments. Our yellow schoolhouse was aglow and filled with live music, good food, and all manner of festive ornament-making supplies – felt, glitter, glue, paint, markers and more.

We had five or six tables set up with different materials and projects – all filled to capacity with kids. Boston artist Marilyn Mase helped kids make her trademark stuffed felt ornaments; Michelle Brooks and several wonderful volunteers helped make snowmen, wreaths, and all sorts of wonderful creations.

We were delighted to see so many smiling faces streaming into the school, to see the fun the kids had playing and creating, and to bid them happy holidays as they left, proudly carrying their handmade treasures with them. Our thanks to all who joined us for this special event. Perhaps this will become yet another holiday tradition in Jamaica Plain – Holiday Ornament Making at the Eliot School!