Christmas lights twinkle... and shine.

Thanks to the holiday spirit and generosity of so many people living in Highland Park, Richard and I were able to enjoy another year hosting our Annual Tour of Christmas Lights.  Matthew loves the Christmas music we blast over the radio; Jack thinks riding in a big white van with painted windows is as cool as riding in a rocket ship; Ricky loves the endless supply of warm chocolate chip cookies and a stop for dinner along the way; I love "oohing" and "aahing" over the multi-million dollar homes; and Richard loves ending the trip on the quad of Southern Methodist University, his alma mater.

I considered writing a post this morning about how perfect family traditions have something in it for everyone.  Instead, I decided to write a letter to the residents of the neighborhood we drove through last night.

Dear Highland Park Residents:

Thank you for making time to hang holiday lights and to decorate your homes for the holidays.  You shine.

I know you do it for your family, but you must also know you are doing it for me and every other community member who gets to pass by your home.

Because you take the extra time (and expense) to decorate, my holiday feels more festive, I feel a cheerier, and my kids are even more excited about the holiday season.

Thank you for the generosity involved in making your homes look beautiful; they are nothing short of picture perfect.  Your enthusiasm and energy (no pun intended) is felt through the hundreds of thousands of lights illuminating your trees, lawns, archways, and windows.

Your home shines, because the lights are festive and romantic and cheery and because they evoke feelings of good will.  You shine, because you made it happen.

We look forward to seeing you and your beautiful homes again next year."

Now take your turn thanking a neighbor - or neighborhood - for generously hanging decorations that make your holiday season more festive.  Visit us in the Community Forum labeled, Today's Post and describe the people and decorations that shine.

Shining off until tomorrow...