There is something magical about Christmas lights, streets that look grey and pedestrian suddenly come alive.
When I was a child Christmas decorations were very different. Houses were not lit up; Christmas trees were not trimmed until Christmas Eve and decorations were primarily made from paper and gift wrap was undone carefully and the paper folded and stored for future use.
This week we went out for a drive around the neighbourhood to have a look at the local houses and check out their decorating prowess. We were not disappointed. Our neighbours really pull out all the stops, some of them must start rigging lights in September.
There are homeowners that decorate their houses to raise money for local charities and the displays are phenomenal, lights, life size Santas and snowmen are surrounded by flashing signs and baubles. Glittering reindeer adorn rooves and lawns and wreaths are hung from doors. They are quite the spectacle.
We had a wonderful time, riding along in our minibus, snug and warm, listening to Christmas songs and singing along at the tops of our voices. It was so much fun. Some of us even hopped off the bus to have a cuddle with a snowman.
December has been fabulous, we have made the most of every day and this week will be no different, we are looking forward to a carol service and a party as well as a delicious three course Christmas dinner and games.