Is it just the Betster, or do all of you feel like Christmas snuck up on us this year? Here in the time-challenged Betster household, we're only just getting around to addressing the Christmas cards. The B's important job of writing the fun, snappy newsletter got a little sidetracked this year. Stocking stuffers? Hey, such things have more meaning if bought at the last moment, you know? It was only this week that the tree and other decorations got put up in our humble little cabin.

Ah, but what a nostalgia rush that turned out to be. Since childhood, the B. has been collecting a menagerie of figurines to go in the nativity creche. There's the cow with the springy head, the one-eared rabbit, the three wise persons, Mr. and Mrs. Inchworm, the singing angel trio and the pewter cats, among other critters. Pulling out old ornaments and other decorations yanked the Betster back to Christmases recent and past, good and challenging, and with it fond memories of family, friends and the joy of the season.

Which is what it's all about, of course. The holiday brings us together, even if only in spirit, and reminds us of loved ones near and far, present and departed. We're lucky to get a three-day weekend: one last day of preparing, Christmas Day to celebrate and Sunday to recover. In between, why not try some of these Best Bets?

BEST HARK THE HERALD ANGEL SINGS: Fritz Creek can claim the Kilchers as its musical talents, but up on Diamond Ridge, the local voice is the Rev. Richard Poor Child. He performs acoustic Christmas carols all over town this weekend. Check out the Calendar on page 23 for times and places.

BEST CHURCH OF YOUR CHOICE: The Unitarian/Universalists hold services at 12:30 p.m. Sunday at the Kachemak Community Center on East End Road. Its presentation is "Sharing Wisdom for Families." The U/U's aren't the only church holding services this weekend. On Christmas Eve Homer United Methodist Church holds traditional services with candlelight and carols at 5 and 7 p.m. Other churches also hold services; check out the "Come, Let us Worship" ad for contact information.

BEST GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY BET: Who knows what this wonky weather will bring this weekend. Fresh fallen snow? Freezing rain? Slush and mud? You're going to have to punt on this one. "Expect nothing; prepare for anything" is the winter recreation advice here. Whether ice skating, skiing or walking on the beach, get out and about and enjoy the increasing winter light.