Tick, tock, tick, tock … are you ready for Christmas? The countdown clock is moving quickly now. With only a week and a few days until show time, many locals are sure to be busy this week.

But before you focus on the tasks ahead, pause to remember the week behind. Here’s some highlights:

• Army Veteran Larry Huff recently returned home from his second tour of duty in Iraq. Huff, a Natchez native, was greeted by friends and family Saturday. Welcome home, officer, and thank you for your service.

• Savanna Clardy celebrated a special birthday last week on a special day. The Cathedral student turned 12 on 12-12-12. We hope the unique day was fun, Savanna.

• The artwork of 30 McLaurin Elementary School students is on public display at ArtsNatchez downtown. Check out their work, and you’ll see what a few stars of tomorrow can do.

• Members of Jefferson Street United Methodist Church packed 10,000 bags of food in a short time period Wednesday night as a part of the Stop Hunger Now program. The food will be shipped around the world to those battling hunger. The project was a great service and an amazing feat, considering the sheer amount of food the group processed.

Enjoy the holiday cheer this week, whether it takes you out for last minute shopping, to a friend’s house for a holiday party or just on a drive around town to enjoy the lights.

Christmas will be here before you know it.