So it is Christmas time again, and instead of asking for gifts - because nobody ever actually gets me any, even though I still want some - I will instead use this space to express appreciation for different people in December. There are, inevitably, people around town who just don't get the appreciation they deserve.
Let's start with snow removal, because until I moved to Yorkton I didn't actually experience reliable municipal snow removal. Of course, growing up on a farm that's to be expected, and also the reason farmers usually own their own snowplow. If we absolutely needed to go somewhere it was just a matter of waiting for dad to clear a path. However, when you lived in Saskatoon, where there is not enough parking for a large tractor, you begin to appreciate the magic of prompt snow removal. There, every storm was marked by the distinct sound of a car straining to get traction on streets that were generally not clear. I noticed this on a recent Sunday when we were beset by a bit of a storm, I could go and drive somewhere without worry, which is a lot more rare than you would think.
Credit to city crews then, for making it possible to navigate the city for anyone with reasonable tires on their car. They even get out on a cold Sunday, a day I marked by drinking hot chocolate in my underpants until I realized I was out of some essentials and had to get to the store. I'm sure everyone would much rather drink hot chocolate than go plow the streets, though I won't presume to choose people's clothing preferences, so we should be grateful someone had to actually go out in that weather.
Also getting some appreciation are cashiers, especially during Christmas season. A particularly good cashier - and there are many in the stores in this city - makes the worst part of shopping painless. I hate lines, and I hate parting with money, but a busy store makes you deal with both, so I love it when I'm in a line that moves swiftly and efficiently. Sometimes you even get advice for your next shopping trip, which can be handy if you actually remember it. Not every cashier is great, but I think that the great ones will know who they are, for their lines move quickly and people generally leave their till happy to have spent a pile of money.
Finally, I will give credit to children who do not scream in public. I know, people focus on poorly behaved children, the ones who pierce the store with screams specifically designed to make another person's hair stand on end. But the well behaved kids and their parents never get the credit they deserve. I mean I know that it's hard to raise a kid, that's why I'm not doing it, and I know every parent does it to the best of their abilities. I'm not going to be too mean to those whose kids just have to be a pain for a shopping afternoon, I'm sure that my own mother has stories of times when I was that screaming kid. But when I see a family where everyone is happy and nobody is shouting, I just want to give a little thanks, because I am definitely appreciative of everyone. If your kids have been good for the entire Christmas season, maybe give them an extra gift.
Those are some of the people who aren't noticed every year, but let's just give them some recognition for making life better.
