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.

The Dover Low Vision Group will meet at the Thayer Parkway Community Room, 33 Thayer Parkway, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. The group will have a potluck holiday celebration, please bring a snack to share.

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.

Upcoming events around the region.

The Piscataquis County Ice Arena announced that the Center Theatre is sponsoring a free public skating session at the arena from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 29. Members of the cast of the upcoming production of “Little Women” will be on hand in Victorian costume to skate and help with the evening. Skates will be available for rental from the arena will also have the concessions stand open for snacks

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.

Upcoming events around the region.

The Center Theatre and the Slightly Off-Center Players plan to host a holiday murder mystery dinner theater at Central Hall on Saturday, Nov. 30, but only if they get enough interested participants. The event, titled "Ho Ho Homicide," centers around some holiday problems at the North Pole.

A play reading will take place at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 1 p.m. at Carol and Fred Sherburne’s home in Dexter. The reading will feature three short plays by Robert Frost.

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.

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.

On Saturday, Nov. 23 at 1 p.m. Siesta Sanctuary of Harmony will be bringing live parrots to the Abbott Memorial Library and presenting a free program on the care and welfare of these amazing birds.