We had a wonderful time on our night light drive. Seven of us filled up the van and we headed out to see the offerings of fellow citizens who have dedicated hours of their time to celebrate in lights and sharing with the communitty. It was really fun. We looked up the best local lighting displays and programmed them into the Granstra's Garmin. We had decided on Cape Coral and if you know Cape Coral then you know why we saved hours of searching this way:-)

The boys had enjoyed a nice long bike ride through Lakes Park after a wonderful time with the church earlier in the day. Side note; Gates's little sense of humor is blooming. We've been wondering if he has just been tripping into perfect comedic timing for some of his comments, but it seems he is intentionally choosing his moment. Case in point. While we were singing Christmas songs that Gates loves to sing, he wasn't joining in. We coaxed and reminded him of the words and he shook his head and weaved his fingers through Mamma's hair the whole time singing continued.

While we were walking out Bridger started singing, "We wish you a Merry Christmas."
and Gates stated, "I don't know that one." Yes, he does know that one. Then as we are driving toward home to change into play clothes for the park I mentioned to Paul quietly, "Gates just wasn't in the singing mood. Too bad he won't share his talents outside the house yet." Daddy said, "Gates do you want to sing in the car with us? You start a song." Silence then, "No." as we pull away from an intersection Gates bursts into song, "Happy Kwanzaa! Happy Kwanzaa!" (Thanks Barney's Christmas Star Video.) Bridger counters with "I have a little Dreidle." and we're all laughing. Smart aleck:-) Wit is very much appreciated in our family.


So, back to the light drive, The boys' nap ran a little over and when Brian and Chari arrived we had tacos and talked loud with the NFL on to help them wake up. It took awhile, but they did. Nothing like a long bike ride on a breezy day to make a little guy tired. Their enthusiasm awoke quickly though. They chose a fave pillow and blankie (yes it's 57 degrees here at night and we tropical
fruits have to be well covered!) I can hear the chuckles of my northern friends and family from here.

Mom sat between the boys in the far back seat, which was wonderful because I got to hear every little sound of admiration and response. The lights were fun and we shared over and over again that Jesus is the light of the world and how those who follow him will not walk in darkness. The long dark streets followed by brilliant lights really helped them receive this truth easily. Light is better and more beautiful. Merry Christmas.