Shhh, don't tell Fox News, but Gov. Susana Martinez's Christmas greeting to state employees (as seen in the 'Round the Roundhouse newspaper) was sadly incomplete.

For one thing, nowhere in the short note to employees was there any mention of Christmas. The governor wished state workers a happy holiday season, and encouraged them to count their blessings and enjoy time with their families. Not a word about the birth of Jesus, either. Oops!

Seriously, Martinez's greetings offered generous wishes for everyone to have a wonderful holiday — we are kidding about the lack of "Christmas" in the wording to make a point. That point being this: It's time to stop picking apart a politician's words to see whether they are "Christian" enough. Just this year, President Obama's Thanksgiving greeting, his Christmas card, decorations on the national tree, all have been dissected to show his failings as a Christian and human being.

The latest "outrage" came this week when Fox News became upset over the 2011 White House Christmas card. A charming scene, the card features Bo, the first dog, basking in the glow of a fire, holiday poinsettias lending color to the scene. (We're waiting to see if there is retroactive outrage to President Reagan's austere card featuring snow and the White House, or upset over President George W. Bush's card with snow and his two dogs.) The fuss — even Sarah Palin weighed in to complain that Obama's card didn't emphasize faith and freedom enough — is just another in a series of fake outrages manufactured for no good reason except to sow discord.

Next year, please, all we want for Christmas is an end to the War on Christmas phoniness. Should our wish be granted, we promise not to complain if Gov. Martinez sends out "holiday" greetings to state workers once more.


Santa Fe's Canyon Road farolito walk is one of our city's most beloved traditions. It starts at dusk each Christmas Eve and brings together thousands of locals and visitors. Remember to dress warmly and wear sensible shoes — especially with recent snows, the streets around Canyon Road are likely to be icy.

One tip to avoiding crowds. Drop by a little later, say around 8 p.m., to avoid the crush of people who turn out at dusk. Leave dogs and other pets at home — the crowds can spook even the friendliest animals. Additionally, because it can be difficult to maneuver strollers in the crush and along uneven streets and sidewalks, it's best to leave them behind.

Then take a deep breath, and lose yourself in the lovelieest night of the year.