Sometimes, the most astonishing findings come about unexpectedly. Just this June, during construction work in Mexico, an archaeological site dating back potentially over 1,000 years was unearthed. This remarkable event has opened up new avenues of exploration into the ancient human presence in the region.

The Significance of the Discovery

In Hidalgo, Mexico, archaeologists have been diligently investigating the foundations of a pyramid that was uncovered earlier this year while working on federal highway 105. As detailed in a December 5 statement by Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), this site is part of a pre-Hispanic settlement, potentially shedding light on the ancient human occupation of Hidalgo's mountainous Sierra Alta region.A spokesperson from INAH stated, "The site and monument were meticulously documented with the aid of drones to create digital photogrammetric models." This advanced technology has allowed for a more comprehensive understanding of the site.The excavation, led by Mexico's Ministry of Culture through INAH in Hidalgo, has revealed five "sectors" and at least ten archaeological mounds. In addition to these structures, archaeologists have collected 155 samples, including ceramics, shells, stone artifacts, lime floors, charcoal, soil, and carbonized wood. These samples will be studied in detail through laboratory analyses in the coming months, providing valuable insights into the past.The INAH archaeologists have dated the complex to between the Epiclassic period (650 to 950 CE) and Late Postclassic period (1350 to 1519 CE), predating the arrival of Europeans in Mexico. They suggest that it was associated with the small Metztitlan kingdom of indigenous people, also known as the Metzca, which remained independent until the Spanish arrived at the beginning of the 16th century. According to INAH, this kingdom had a "multi-ethnic imprint" that was still present when priests from the Order of Saint Augustine began building churches and convents.Archaeologists have further identified the site as part of a pre-Hispanic settlement called San Miguel, due to its modern proximity to the town of San Miguel Metzquititlán. San Miguel Metzquititlán is located within Barranca de Metztitlán, which is now a nature reserve in the Sierra Alta region. Some evidence suggests that human activity in this area dates back 14,000 years ago.After "exhaustive study," the INAH archaeologists reburied the archaeological complex. This conservation method is often employed when there are insufficient resources to properly manage a heritage site. Before reburial, experts protected the structures with geotextile, a permeable textile combined with other materials like rock or soil to safeguard archaeological ruins and other landmarks. As a final protective measure, workers have built a rock wall to further shield the reburied site from the nearby road construction.While it is disheartening to see heritage disappear beneath the soil again, it is crucial to preserve this important history until it can be properly managed. It remains to be seen what further laboratory analyses will uncover from the samples kept above ground.

My wife and I recently had a wonderful experience. We attended our local parade of lights and then watched "Rudolf The Red-Nosed Reindeer" on TV, officially marking the start of Christmastime. The weather during the parade was just right, with light winds and temperatures in the mid-30s. Just a few days before, it was extremely cold with the mercury dropping to single digits and a howling wind that made the windchill well below zero. It's truly better to be lucky than good.

Christmas Parade Delights

Scores of kids came out to watch the parade from the curb, excitedly calling out to Santa as he passed by on a float. Despite the dim light, the parents allowed their children to scramble out and pick up the candy tossed by the parade participants. I was relieved that the kids could collect their sugary treats without the risk of frostbite. You know you're in farm country when the Christmas parade entries include a weed sprayer or a tractor decorated with colorful LED lights.

It was a sight to behold, with the community coming together to celebrate the holiday. The floats were beautifully decorated, and the music filled the air. It was a truly magical moment that brought out the child in all of us.

The kids' excitement was contagious, and it was heartwarming to see their faces light up as they received the candy. It made me realize the importance of these small traditions in bringing people together during the holiday season.

Charlie Brown and Christmas Memories

For me, the only thing that would make this a Christmas trifecta would be rewatching "A Charlie Brown Christmas." I always related to sad sack Charlie and his woebegone little Christmas tree. Charlie reminded me of myself when I was a kid. The character Pigpen also held a special place in my heart as I grew up poor with a deep-seated aversion to bathing. Even our family's weekly baths, where all eight of us kids used the same bathwater, seemed like an excessive focus on cleanliness.

It's amazing how these childhood memories can stay with us and shape our perspectives on Christmas. "A Charlie Brown Christmas" always brings back a sense of nostalgia and reminds us of the true meaning of the holiday.

As I think back to those days, I realize how much has changed. But some things, like the joy of Christmas and the memories associated with it, will always remain with us.

The Dilemma of Buying Gifts

Figuring out what to buy for Christmas has always been a challenge for me. I never know what to give anyone, but I've learned that jewelry is always a safe option for my wife. She's the easiest person to buy for as long as it involves precious metals and gemstones that are shiny and have multiple facets.

Buying for someone like an uncle can be extremely difficult. For example, I had an uncle named Dale who was a bachelor farmer. We would celebrate Christmas with him and his parents (my grandparents) every year in a sprawling, raucous family gathering that included gift exchanges.

It's hard to find the perfect gift for a bachelor farmer as he probably already has everything he wants. With my limited allowance, I would often end up buying something like a tie clasp or a bottle of cheap cologne. He might not have had any use for them, but it was the thought that counted.

The Gift of Time

Our friends and family have almost everything they want, which makes it difficult for my wife and me to find Christmas gifts for many people. So, we have decided to make a present of our presence. In other words, we have chosen to give our time and give those we love our undivided attention.

For example, my wife and I recently spent an afternoon visiting with our friends Myron and Nancy. We had a great time chatting for several hours and never ran out of things to talk about. It was a very pleasant way to spend the day.

As adults, we often forget the value of spending time with each other. These extended, long-winded interactions are what truly matter and can create lasting memories.

It's amazing how something as simple as spending time with loved ones can bring so much joy. We have learned that the best gifts are often the ones that come from the heart.