This time of year, I’m lit up like a Christmas tree with fond memories and nostalgia. Crappy 80s Christmas decorations, the smell of a freshly cut evergreen, my mother cursing over sugar cookies and my father pouring another glass of rum while I dig into a third box of Icy Squares. Then there’s the after-taste of $2.50 White Russians at the local pub’s Boxing Day party, not to mention my parents’ disapproval in the mornings.

Anyway, I feel like every year I say, “Christmas isn’t what it used to be.” Mostly it’s true, Christmas is for kids. But today I felt that old thrill of happiness and excitement when I went to see the first annual St. John’s Mummers Parade, followed by a Christmas party at The Rooms.

My favourite was the little boy wearing a bra outside his winter jacket.

I didn’t stay long at the party as I had to brave the mall to finish up my shopping. Unfortunately I missed out on the Purity syrup and cookies.

Conclusion? Next year me and my comrades are definitely participating, we really regretted not doing so this year. I wish we had planned a Mummers Party here before everyone started their holidays, but alas, even the gingerbread house remains unfinished. I figure our party would involve more alcohol and the eventual shedding of clothing, however.

I’m incredibly happy that groups like this keep the Newfoundland spirit alive. Happy Mummering!