The alarm breaks the pre-dawn silence, a sound that hunters have anticipated for months. It was the first day of December, opening day for both deer shotgun season on land and commercial scallop season in the sea — a rare convergence of two cherished pastime traditions.

Hunters moved through their routine with silent efficiency, layered in blaze orange for the woods, breath misting in the crisp, predawn air. As the first hint of light touched the horizon, hunters settled into their stands, the woodland floor lay silent beneath them. Patience is a hunter’s greatest virtue, and for hours they waited, listening to the natural symphony of the awakening woods. Many will pass up on a doe that grazed in front of them, quietly taking in the beautiful sight soaking in the placidity of the moment, even without the shot.

By mid-morning, the woods quiet down and there is a shift in focus. The temperature rises and the scallops begin calling. The earthy scent of the woods is traded for the briny promise of the sea. The underwater world is a revelation after the quiet patience of the woods. Sunlight dapples through the water, illuminating the hunt that changed from passive waiting to active pursuit.

The day culminates not in a single moment of triumph, but in the shared experience of two different environments, two different challenges, and a deep appreciation for the land and sea that provided for our table.

Before blaze orange was a two-week absolute necessity, the Chilmark School and Chilmark Preschool kiddos laced up their running shoes and, as per tradition, raced down Middle Road. Parents joined. Some children meandered. Everyone enjoyed. Anders Mason and Cormac Moriarty were the first and second to cross the finish line amongst the boys. Wren Forte and Lilou Decker were the first two amongst the girls. Cheering everyone on from the sidelines was Margaret Maida. Margaret is not only Henry and Sadie Coutinho’s great grandmother, she is also about the most spectacular community advocate we have.

Speaking of Margaret, she had quite the surprise and reason to give extra thanks over the holiday week. Last Monday, there was an unexpected knock at her door. After hopping in the car in Gainesville, Ga., son Charlie, granddaughter Chelsea, her friend Aaron and their pup, made the thousand-plus mile journey and appeared on the doorstep. Margaret is rarely speechless, but I am guessing when she opened the door it took her a minute to find her words. What a special gift.

With the cold setting in, the Chilmark Church has made the transition from Tuesday evening pizza dinners to community suppers. The time is still the same, 6 to 7 p.m. in the community room. Now, instead of grabbing a slice, you’ll enjoy soups and other hearty offerings. You can bring something to share. You can bring your poem place setting. You can simply come as you are. All are welcome.

December is the month of gift giving. A group of artists will display their wares for the next couple of weeks at the Chilmark Library. Linda Thompson is pleased she is one of them. Along with Linda you will find goods by Judy Mayhew, Candy Shweder, Marguerite Smith and a handful more. Shop small. Shop local.