merry and bright

We've never been a Christmas lights family.  We tried the subdued candles-in-the-window thing but never had enough plugs or extension cords.  Or the elegant spotlight-on-wreath-on-front-door -- until worries about the mix of electricity and rain/snow forced me to bring it inside.

But I love the happy optimism and sweet joy in other people's lights.  From tacky to tasteful, I love them all.  They're there simply to give pleasure, and what could be a better motivation than that?   They speak to our urge to make our world a little nicer and share it with our neighbors, and that's a hopeful and generous way to end one year and start the next.  Happy holidays, and may 2011 be a year filled with joy and light.  xo