favorite.tradition.

As the big day approaches, we continue to check major milestones off of our “must do” list for the season.  Of all the traditions, one of the simplest but most special is our annual Christmas light hunt.  

It really is as simple as it sounds.  We pick a day on the calendar, wait until dark, get our comfy PJs and some hot chocolate, possibly make a quick detour at Starbucks, and put on some of our favorite Christmas tunes, and drive around the streets, neighborhoods, and towns near our house for a night of Christmas joy.  

Tonight, we sampled new music from Ed Sheehan and Elton John, timeless favorites like The Carpenters and Neil Diamonds Christmas Album, some 98 Degrees, Mariah Carey, Polar Express, Ben Rector, and more.  We do our best to sing along to every song we know by heart, and muddle through the ones we don’t with gusto.

It did seem that more houses were “dark” this year than usual, and our hope is this is a temporary malady caused by the strains of the past two years.  Even though some homes weren’t fully in the spirit, we did catch a full light-show spectacular at one home that included a radio station tuned to the lights, with lights timed to TSO, Alan Jackson’s ‘Let it Be Christmas,’ and more.  

Adding to the festive atmosphere, our beloved Chocolate Lab, Brody, turned 13 today.  We celebrated him with a birthday serenade, silly pictures, and special dog bone treats to help him ring in the new big year.  Our other dog, Milo, also has a big day coming up, turning just 14 in a few short weeks.  

Even though dog years has our dogs pegged as “seniors,” they still provide us with lots of fun and enjoyment.  We are thankful for the years we have gotten to spend with them, and are hopeful that we still have some years left before they leave us.

With only 48 hours until Santa starts his special flight, we pray that everyone stays safe, healthy, and gets the chance to  enjoy this Christmas with full hearts.

jess.