‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the east, not a creature was stirring, not even the Turner Beast. By the Blaine House was strung, with bureaucratic-like care, low-energy Christmas lights, casting a glare.

Snug inside, perhaps in stocking and cap, is Gov. John Baldacci, ready for a long winter’s nap. Instead of dancing sugarplums or other festive images, he’s got $95 million things on his mind, plus scowling taxpayer visages.

It’s a tough holiday season in Augusta right now, with deficits galore. But Christmas, we think, means a little bit more. We wish everyone well, and have a safe, happy time – whichever holiday you celebrate, or what you think of this rhyme.

We’re not poets, but full of great cheer. So from our families to yours, here’s to seeing the man with eight tiny reindeer. It’s been a tough week for ol’ St. Nick; in Connecticut he was groped in a mall, in Spokane, Wash., he was knocked out, perhaps by a brick.

So if he pops down your chimney, or comes through your front door, welcome the tired traveler with the gifts to adore. Tomorrow is Christmas, after all, a day deserving of praise.

From the Sun Journal to you, happy holidays.