Some Christmas Spirit

In search of some Christmas spirit, I ended up crossing the James River into the city for Richmond's 25th Grand Illumination. The traffic was heavy and slowed the progress nearing the east end of Cary Street; but soon the visual of all the the light adorned buildings, activities, children and music revealed an electrified holiday atmosphere . The only way to fully experience the event held at the James Center is on foot. So, the next 4 hours was spent in the brisk night air with hundreds of fascinated kids, hard-working vendors and volunteers, happy parents and lots of folks simply celebrating the opening of the 2009 Christmas season. 

And certainly I must have been caught up in it all as we waited an unbelievable 2 1/2 hours for a free 20 minute carriage ride that almost didn't happen due to closing time. The time spent commiserating with all the other crazy people in line was certainly cheering  - but, it was when one of the last rides of the night returned that I really felt the spirit kick in. The group had about 6 little boys who looked to be 3 to 5 years old; and just as their ride was ending and the horse drawn carriage rounded the circle in front of us, a little head popped up over the edge of the carriage - his brown eyes beaming and wide as he yelled out "Merry Christmas!". And that is all it took - that's what I had been waiting for all night. 

Thanks, little guy. 

 

 

  

Photographed on December 4, 2009

  
            

      
    

Comments

[Philippines property]

I think this is a great design and it is great property also

Deirdre G

[Renee]

Thanks - hope to showcase more great places as I go.