Halloween is over, and it seems like all the advertisements are now geared toward Christmas. As of today (Thursday), there are just 44 days until Christmas. It's time for craft fairs and shopping and all the holiday fundraisers.

Last weekend I attended the Trout Creek School bazaar and the Honey Bazaar at the Whitepine Grange. What a wonderful display of craftsmanship at both event. There were people milling about at both events, and it seemed everyone walked out with at least one treasure. I got a head start on my holiday shopping.

Then it got me thinking about how we at the Ledger need to start promoting our gift offerings such as photo canvas prints and custom holiday cards.

We have so many great opportunities for holiday shopping in Sanders County. Every town has a gift shop. If your Christmas list includes local honey, pottery, power tools, photo gifts, wooden signs, or custom t-shirts with your dog's face on it, you can find it here.

There are several bazaars planned in the next month. What a great way to find a unique gift to send to a loved one who doesn't live here. Many of these crafters spend all year preparing for bazaar season. At the Trout Creek School bazaar, I really appreciated some of the returning vendors having new items for sale, as well as their old favorites.

For every dollar spent at local businsesses, much of that money stays in our communities. Local businesses are good about supporting each other and giving to local organizations. Supporting local businesses makes our entire community stronger, and we could all use some positive community pride these days.

Ready or not, the hustle and bustle of the holidays is approaching. We encourage you to save gas, avoid the crowded stores of the big cities, and shop local this season.

— Annie Wooden