It becomes very obvious when Christmas is nearly upon us. 'Tis the season to be busy, that is for sure.
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Despite the chores increasing tenfold and the chaos levels slowly rising, the coming weeks should be times of fun and joy, of family and friends, of good food and cheer.
![An Eastern Grey kangaroo with her joey at Bawley Point, a day after a bushfire sent kangaroos panicking in surrounding bush. Picture: Sitthixay Ditthavong An Eastern Grey kangaroo with her joey at Bawley Point, a day after a bushfire sent kangaroos panicking in surrounding bush. Picture: Sitthixay Ditthavong](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/fdcx/doc78a7t0ejlmex0i4gfru.jpg/r0_0_5338_3013_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
There's always so much to do, and whether it's your favourite activity or least favourite thing, shopping for presents is probably on the top of your to-do list.
The malls are full, the school yards soon to be empty and in the coming weeks plenty of Canberrans would normally be packing their bags to take a trip down the coast.
It is so important not to change those travel plans this year, in light of the devastating bushfires that have wreaked havoc in recent weeks.
For one, it doesn't get much better than the coast at Christmas. As Canberra will no doubt swelter, the cool coastal breeze and a dip in the ocean calls.
Fish and chips on the beach, a drink or two at the restaurant overlooking the water, some fresh seafood from the local supplier and an ice cream from the corner shop. Supporting the community isn't hard to do.
Why not drop in to Braidwood on the way, browse the stores and pick up a pie and coffee for the road? Businesses and residents there are also suffering from the recent North Black Range fire. Braidwood was, for the past few weeks, surrounded by flames.
It doesn't get much better than the coast at Christmas.
The devastation from the bushfires is shocking and sad, but there are tangible ways you can help.
The cost is calling, and it's not just to remind Canberrans that the beaches are as beautiful as ever. The small businesses are struggling, and they are asking for your support.
As we report today, the fires have left a scar on that beautiful part of the world, and it will take time to heal.
But amid the desolation, there are still flashes of the well-loved places.
The spirit of Christmas is all about generosity, compassion, joy and spreading cheer. Canberrans can help bring some of that back to the people living and working in a very special part of "Canberra's coast".
While the road to paradise is paved with devastation, there are more than a few good things about the beach: it doesn't burn, and the sea breeze quickly whips away the smoke.