Monday, December 20, 2010

Mobile Loaves and Fishes

Between our IX annual Naught or Nice party as well as the Trail donations, the Saturday run at St John Neumann's was a hit! The truck was packed to the hilt with clothes and blankets! More so than the hot cocoa as the heater for the water tank never hit 100! Oh well, not one less fortunate person complained.

For me, this is what it is all about. We are all here for each other its just some folks have not figured that out yet! Mentor and lead by example.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Hot Cocoa night was a hit!

Hot Chocolate and donuts were a hit!
My neighbors Steve and Monique Price who own Shipley Donuts were gracious enough to supply 30 dozen donuts! Their son Evan took charge of the operation and did a brilliant job!
Hundreds of folks showed up for the event.

I think last night was the first time I really took in the trail. Seeing all the smiles, the kids having a ball, the comments, and the general gratitude was quite moving for me. A bit on the sad side that my folks never got to witness my creative side (which I have zero artistic ability) ....hehehe aka know as OCD!

Many friends and their families stopped by last night. For that moment, it was not about bills, money, holiday blues, sadness...it was about how we all have that little kid in us who truly loves the camaraderie, lights, music and sweets of course! If you have not had the chance to witness the trail, I hope you can make it by.

My mind is already thinking about next year; what I am going to add, the location of many displays, new light schemes, etc. I rarely ever utilize the same plat for the displays. Having no plan can be a bit overwhelming however I guess that's why one can interpret this craziness as art!

Monday, December 13, 2010

Friday Night Hot Chocolate and Shipley Donuts!

Be sure and join us Friday night December 17th for our Hot Chocolate and Donuts night.
This has become an annual event. Tons of fun and goodies.

Friday, December 10, 2010

New displays!!

I have had this crazy idea for the past few seasons.
What about a toilet in the Christmas display!
However, in a mind debate, I felt quite "flush" and gave up...until now!
Okay, I found this unique Tasmanian devil blow-mold on Craigslist!
Who better to hang out on the toilet than he! A must see....

Also, added the Woodchuck display as well.
Hope to see you soon!

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Hot Chocolate and Donuts: Dec. 17th...save the date

The date is set!
Hot Chocolate, donuts and goodies night will be Friday December 17th starting at 6pm weather permitting!

Traffic increasing each night

So far, the feedback is outstanding.
Folks are so grateful. Seeing the kids smile, their folks having a ball and all the joy it brings, well no words here. This is a tough time for some folks and hopefully the trail will help get through the holidays. We all have that little kid in us who misses the days of no bills, no responsibilities and on Christmas, receiving gifts from a heavy set dude with a white beard, reindeer and a sleigh!

Just a few more surprises are in order. Stay tuned!

Saturday, December 4, 2010

December 4th update

Everyday, I seem to always find little things to add to the trail. Oddly enough, there are so many items, displays, etc most folks don't remember from year to year what is old and what is new!

I have a few more surprises.
This year, having the trail complete by Thanksgiving was a huge success.
Traffic each night is picking up. Most folks don't know it is open at this point.
A continuing topic from folks is that "my friend told me about this!"
For me, it is still Austin's best kept secret......

#1 question = "Where do your store all this?"