CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Well, our decorating is done. The house is ready for company. We are anticipating the Christmas holidays right along with our neighbors!
If we leave our curtains open the neigbors can at least enjoy the Christmas tree view. Good thing, because our outside lights, are pathetic. Hanging icicle lights with only half the lights lit. Red white and blue stars with the red lights burned out. cobbled together along the edge of the deck, they stay on (the ones that actually work) all night. In front we have lights that stay up all year. After hanging for a full year outside it's amazing that they actually work. After all, according to Ron, by the time he can take them down, it's about time for Christmas so he might as well leave them up.

But then take a look at the neighborhood. The blue house down the street has white icicle lights hanging from every corner. Next door graceful strings of white lights compliment the hanging garland on their porch. Luminaries line the sidewalk across the street. There are wreaths, lit evergreens, and outdoor displays up and down the street. If there was a competition we'd win for 'sorriest looking'. We'd hardly get credit for trying. Somewhere in our basement are the real strings of icicle lights that should be hanging from our eaves. However, the energy to get the lights up left years ago. At least we still have enthusiasm for the season. It's not the lights or even the beautiful tree; it's the hope and anticipation we have for welcoming a King!

Merry Christmas.