Whether it's Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or not tied to a religion or culture at all, many people enjoy having some extra time off to celebrate the holidays. The true meaning of this time of year isn't about gifts or candy-decked gingerbread houses, but peace on earth and goodwill to others. It's also about spending time with family and friends while spreading good cheer to last the year. How are you celebrating Christmas? Weigh in at nsnews.com - Jules Knox Emarie Cabangon North Vancouver "I'll be working all day and eating dinner at home with my family."
Joshua Galinato North Vancouver "I'm sleeping in, and then going to a restaurant for dinner."
Jeffrey Merk North Vancouver "It is an opportunity to be around my awesome family and friends more."
Arsalan Shakouri Vancouver "I'll be spending it with my family. We don't have plans, but we want to stay at home."
Vickie Larusson North Vancouver "I'm going to my brother's for supper. I'm excited to open presents with my daughter."
Newsrooms are full of stories that don't make it on to the page. We want to share those with you. Use the free Layar app to scan this logo and send us your question and we'll record an answer for you.
Tim quietly coughed and the man looked up abruptly. He apologized.
"I had the money in the till to pay the rent," he explained. "One of my employees stole it, and the landlord says he will turn me out if I can't pay it."
Tim thought a moment.
He took out his five-pound note. "I will give you the money if in return you give me a job here," he said. The man gladly agreed.
The business flourished.
Soon the landlord was bought out. The store became known for its quality goods and fairness. There was money to expand. Tim Cratchit prospered. Years passed. He married and had a child. But he felt a yearning to return home.
When he and his little family arrived he immediately sought out Scrooge's home. He explained to his child that they were going to where a very great man lived, who had helped him when he was young. The child smiled. And, to Tim's surprise, as they approached Scrooge's house the child ran ahead and up the steps, as if he knew it.
Scrooge was in bed. He was very old and weak. But he half-lifted himself when Tim and the child came into the room. Scrooge smiled happily. "Mr. Scrooge, I owe so much to you. You are like a grandfather to me. And here is my son."
The child let go of his father's hand and ran forward. He looked steadfastly into Scrooge's eyes. He took the old man's hand. And in that instant Ebenezer Scrooge had his second great revelation.
