Of Lights and Fanfare

We stood sipping hot chocolate, bundled up against the cold as I waited for the first holiday parade I've seen in person since I was a small child to begin. It was drizzling and cold, but we were only two of a very large crowd of people gathered on the city streets in anticipation of the sounds and sights to come.

At a few minutes past 6, it began with the sound of drums and the flashing of lights

Light festooned floats carrying people bundled against the cold and playing winter music hummed past:

Oh No! A Dragon, look out!

Revelers of all sorts pranced past, ribbon twirlers, princesses, pipers and even a few festive pups:

All heralding the return of and welcoming a famously jolly man in his bright red and warm coat to town:

Just shy of an hour later, it was over. The lights faded, the fanfare carried off by the chilly winds of winter. We headed off to a party held later that night, with hearts warmed and smiles bright.


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Don't forget to enter my Giveaway that end this Friday! You can find all the details and put your name in the hat by clicking here!

Also, please take a moment to head on over to the Better Homes and Gardens site to vote for my snowman ornament again today and hopefully once every day until the 12th when this round ends and the winner will be announced. You can cast your vote by clicking here.