A magical town

During this holiday season we often see some nice sentimental movies or TV shows that either take place in the past, or that feature life in a small town at Christmas. Usually the scenes take us back in memory to a happy time or place that seems almost magical using our selective memories. We remember gatherings that were fun and loved ones that were very special. Usually we can even describe some specific gift that was very meaningful.

In our adult years and into our middle age plus years, it seems that many of these memories do not come to life anymore. Gifts are not exciting when we already have more "stuff" than we can find places for. Gatherings often mean either the burden of cooking a big meal when we have lost the enthusiasm for such undertakings, or a trip to a relative's home with worries of bad weather for driving.

On top of all that, the scenes of our childhood that are reinforced with each Hallmark special seem to be history. They are something that belongs to the past and can't be relived in the present year.

But before we get too wrapped up in this melancholy way of thinking, have you looked around at our area recently? Have you read about all the events that are taking place and seen all the decorations that brighten up every block in each town in our county? My Christmas Spirit got a head start on the first Saturday of November when several of the stores in Nevada began their Christmas sales. My own church had their huge bazaar and soup luncheon. Seeing all the friends working in the various rooms of the bazaar and watching the customers coming in with smiles and conversation would have cheered up the worst Grinch. It seemed that everyone found a friend to greet and visit with.

Then, all through December similar activities have been happening all over the county. The big Nevada Christmas parade was especially nice since it wasn't too cold that night and friends were gathering early to hear the various choral groups perform. It was wonderful to have the group of Cottey students adding to the local event with their talented singers.

My daughter and I took four great grandchildren to the parade and then went over to Nevada Sunrise to wait for Santa to get off the fire engine and come in to greet the children in person. We were able to get a warm meal while we were waiting and that added to the fun.

Later we drove to the Lake and circled the drive, admiring the lighting effects arranged for our enjoyment. As we came to the end of the circle it was very nice to see the friends from PETS taking donations for the expense of the display and for their own program. The young people ran down to the island and got a better view of the display on the hill behind them. They were excited and impressed at what their Grandmommy's town was doing.

The presentation of Christmas Tuna at the Fox Theater gave more chances to mingle with friends and enjoy our home-town talent. The activities in each church in town, in addition to the public events, have made this a season to remember.

When we experience these events we know that even if we are middle age plus we can still enjoy living in a county that becomes magical at Christmas.

Thanks for sharing these moments with me and my family.

Merry Christmas!