News Photo by Josh Jambor Bella and Maddie enjoy some play time at the Thomas Stafford Dog Park, in Alpena on Tuesday. Temperatures were mild on Tuesday and the weather looks uneventful for Christmas.

ALPENA – It is that time of the year. Santa is making his list, and checking it twice.

Same thing can be said for those traveling for Christmas, as they review the forecast for the holidays.

Matt Gillen, Meteorologist for NWS Gaylord says it appears Mother Nature is going to be more nice than naughty for Christmas.

“I am not seeing anything to worry about on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. If you plan on traveling after Christmas, then, you should keep an eye on the forecast, Gillen said.”

Although there won’t be any fresh snow for Christmas, next Friday it looks like it may be a wintry mess.

“Friday into Friday evening there will be a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. With a total accumulation of 2 to 4 inches,” Gillen said.”This is what the post-holiday travelers need to be aware of.”

The temperatures the rest of this week are expected to be normal for this time of the year. With high’s in the 30’s throughout the day and lows in the 20’s at night.

Although there is currently nothing of real significance in the forecast outside of Friday, that could always change.

“Lake effect snow could return this weekend and continue off and on until New Year’s,” Gillen explained.

For your New Years plans, Gillen expects slightly cooler temps.

“I am expecting pretty run of the mill weather. The temps will not be out of the ordinary, but there will be a cold front pushing in with high’s in the teens next week.”