Getting in the Holiday Spirit

Sorry for the absence, folks. With Thanksgiving, Justin turning one and finishing up a course I’ve been a little busy. I was blessed with a random one week break between courses so I can finally breathe. Well, until JR comes home tomorrow. šŸ™‚

I’ve always loved the holidays. Thanksgiving and Christmas are two of my favorite times of the year. This year I feel like the holiday spirit has slapped me in the face. I’m decorating, wrapping presents, and wishing I had the money to deck the house all the way out. So, naturally, when I heard that Fayetteville has a Dickens Holiday festival downtown I loaded up the kids and headed to town.

It was awesome, y’all. Carolers in Victorian era clothing, gingerbread cookies and hot cider, the lighting of the town tree, fireworks and Father Christmas pictures. I can’t believe I’ve lived in Fayetteville for over five years and this is my first time attending!

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Ashley and Justin with Father Christmas. Justin wasn’t very fond of him. I’m sure that will change as he gets older!

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Justin is all bundled up against the chilly afternoon!

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The Market House. Just inside the second arch from the left is theĀ ChristmasĀ tree. There was a short ceremony after nightfall where the crowd held candles and waited for the tree (and all of the other decorations in town) to be lit.Ā 

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Fireworks after the tree was lit.Ā 

IĀ really wish we could travel to JR’s hometown, Natchitoches, LA, to see the lights. Y’all, Natchitoches’ Festival of Lights is an amazing sight. Walking along the river eating meat pies and taking in the sights. Ahh….maybe next year!

I’m not sure who is more excited for Christmas; Ashley or myself. I think I’m happier this Christmas because I’ve learned to be thankful for all that I have and to also focus on the reason for the season, Jesus Christ.

Does your town go all out for the holidays? Share in the comments or send me a tweet!