Christmas Lights Up The Season

My favorite thing about November and December (besides mine and Maddie's birthday, our anniversary, and Christmas) is the feeling I have for those 6-8 weeks. There is something cozy about the glow of the Christmas tree and decor, something soothing about the Christmas music playing in the stores and something friendly about (almost) everyone you meet.

A few of our traditions include peppermint bark candy, chocolate cherry fudge, fried turkey, chinese food on Christmas Eve with A Christmas Story, and always on December 1st Santa's Magic Elves arrive at our house and move around each night getting into mischief (taking the car for a spin, eating snacks, watching movies, playing cards, making snow angels out of the sugar). We started these traditions as a young family, but now that the girls are older they are the ones to remind me of what we're suppose to do and when.

This year we've added a few traditions to our holiday. One of those being loading up in the car, driving to Plano and driving around with what seems like the rest of the Plano/Frisco residents to look at lights. There is a particular housing development where every house has lights displayed. I've heard if they do not have lights, they pay a fine. (see links below for display and official site)

So, as we were driving along, I noticed that with it being in the 70's and 80's all cars were able to drive with their windows rolled down and kids hanging out the windows. Most of the kids were singing or yelling "Merry Christmas." Our girls were no exception. They giggled in delight as we drove slowly down the streets. Avery yelled "Oh my gosh! Is this were we're going?!" Maddie got so excited when she saw pink or purple lights. There were displays of nativity scenes, disney characters, Hanukkah, even trees that were made to look like candy canes. Every adult we passed: walking or driving, had smiles on their faces. People were out on their lawns waving and greeting all the neighborhood visitors.

That's when I realized something. Put an abundance of lights anywhere at anytime of year and people of all ages become kids again with that holiday delight, genuine cheer and heartfelt smiles. The lights seem to light up something in our hearts and spirits; a memory or a feeling.

So, if you haven't already - find a place you can drive or walk and take in the lights of the season. Then, have some hot chocolate or apple cider and cuddle up with those you love for a favorite holiday movie. (ours is Elf!)

Happy Holidays! Love to you all!

Official Website:
http://www.deerfieldplano.org/

WFAA video:
http://www.wfaa.com/video/wfaageneral-index.html?nvid=192368&shu=1