Around the Banks

Christmas is upon us, and I wish all my readers a happy and healthy Yuletide season. I especially want to thank Danny Federico for being such a great editor and for being patient with me. I have been privileged to have a column of some type in local newspapers for some 35-plus years. To the outside world, it would seem that our little slice of Florida is more slow-paced, but I have witnessed changes in over three decades of writing. One thing that hasn't changed is Christmas, and for that, I am grateful. I want to thank those in our area who keep the Christmas spirit each year and share it with so many.   My mind travels back to memories of family gatherings, the wonderful aroma of great