Great expectations. Not the Dickens’ classic or its various adaptations but those high hopes we have for the holidays vs. the sometimes less than joyous reality. Whatever your beliefs, rituals, traditions -- peace on earth and joy to the world can be especially elusive when you’re trying to buy gifts on a tight budget, go to everyone’s concert, party or special event much less plan and pull off Christmas dinner. Crazy schedules can dissipate the spirit of the season. December at the Thompson Free Library can help you recapture that spirit, catch your breath, and engage your mind.

Girl Scouts of Maine announces that it will host a new member sign-up event for potential members and volunteers at 6 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 2 at the SeDoMoCha Elementary School.

On Saturday, Dec. 7 the Abbott Memorial Library will be celebrating the holiday season by hosting its annual Christmas Tea. The festivities begin at 2 p.m. The Euphonium Pandemoniums will be providing live Christmas music.

The Kris Kringle's Market Committee is gearing up for its 35th annual Kris Kringle's Market from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7 at the Monson Gym. Kris Kringle's Market offers a variety of crafts (aprons, furniture, fabric items, jewelry, etc.), homemade food and wreaths plus more for sale.

Denise Webb won the Maine trivia contest at the monthly Tea Talks on Nov. 14 at Gatherings 4 Main Street. For her knowledge, Webb received a fresh flower arrangement contributed by Spring Street Greenhouse.

For three and a half decades Pine Tree Hospice has served individuals and families, free of charge, during the time of dying and bereavement. The organization’s volunteers assist through all life changes -- as stated with the theme “Seasons of Change” on the cover of the 2019 annual report -- and those involved with and contributing to Pine Tree Hospice were honored during the annual meeting Thursday, Nov. 21 at the Dover-Foxcroft Congregational Church.

The Commons at Central Hall currently needs volunteers to participate in programs, events and light custodial work. We are seeking qualified volunteers to work with us on an as needed basis. Volunteer hours can be made available to fit your interests and skills. Brief background check will be needed for all volunteers.

Veterans assistance (VA issues and other benefits) will be provided at Milo American Legion Post 41 from 1-4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 20.

This will be the 16th annual Thanksgiving dinner offered to the community, by the community. The meal is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28 at the Guilford United Methodist Church on the corner of North Main and School streets. Take out meals are available. Delivered meals and rides to the event are available.

Girl Scouts of Maine announces that it will host a new member sign-up event for potential members and volunteers at 6 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 18 at the Greenville Consolidated School.

Next Thursday, Nov. 21 the Anah Shriners open the doors at 1404 Broadway for the eighth annual Feztival of Trees. Over the next two weekends the Feztival of Trees will host thousands of guests to visit the 62 trees sponsored by generous local businesses.

The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC)/Miosac Club met at Thayer Parkway Nov. 5 for a whirlwind tour of Italy. President Suzanne Raymond called the meeting to order and Betsey Ryan led the Club Collect, American's Creed and Pledge of Allegiance.

On Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 1 p.m. at The Commons at Central Hall, “Unraveling Negative Thoughts for a Brighter Future” will be examined through video presentation followed by discussion.

Growing Through Grief is one of Pine Tree Hospice’s bereavement programs for adults. The Growing Through Grief program begins with a facilitated grief support group which is then followed by a presentation or workshop.

Every Veterans Day, the Three Rivers Kiwanis of Milo-Brownville serves dinner to all local veterans and their families. This year the meal will be held on Monday, Nov. 11 at the Milo Town Hall.

Bountiful is a November kind of word. And if we’re fortunate to have an abundance, be grateful. Better yet, share it. This month, the Thompson Free Library in Dover-Foxcroft has a wealth of information and creativity (and books!) to share with you.

Jeremy Loguercio, program and marketing director at The Commons at Central Hall, recently announced the special schedule of events for November

On Sunday, Nov. 3 at 2 p.m. there will be a Wassabec Genealogy Society meeting at Mayo Regional Hospital in the conference room. The meetings are open to the public and the organization welcomes beginning genealogists to the most experienced.