After a weekend with temperatures approaching seventy degrees, its hard to believe that Christmas is just two days away. As the hours tick by, residents from throughout our area will be making those last minutes gift purchases at their favorites nearby retailers. Families will also be making preparations for holiday dinners together.
My family has been able to enjoy a number of our favorite Christmastime traditions this year -- some of which I am sure are beloved by many of you as well. Just before Thanksgiving, my son and I were able to help decorate the many large, picture windows that grace the front of The Batters Box Sports Tavern, a venerable local restaurant and social gathering spot. Owner Nancy Defeo and Perry Hall's very own Senator Kathy Klausmeier have organized this kid-friendly activity for nearly a decade. Children of all ages pick out their favorite Christmas scene -- including sleighs, wrapped presents, holiday wreaths, and snowmen -- to paint onto the various windows that overlook Bel Air Road.
A couple of weeks later, the Perry Hall Improvement Association and Perry Hall Elementary School held their annual community Christmas Tree lighting. Accompanying this festive celebration is an regular concert featuring students singing classic holiday songs. At around the same time, our family enjoyed the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus at part of the 2013 Holiday Parade held at The Avenue at White Marsh.
One of my personal favorite local holiday traditions is the visit of Santa Claus to most nearby communities, courtesy of the White Marsh Volunteer Fire Company. A week ago on Sunday, Santa Claus came roaring into our neighborhood, not on his trademark sleigh, but atop a fire truck with lights and sirens both activated.
As enjoyable as their varied events have been, the true spirit of Christmas is most evident when we are in the company of friends and family. My wife, son, and I will have many opportunities to celebrate and make merry over the next couple of days, as I am sure all of you will. While we may not have a white Christmas this year, I still hope that it will be a special holiday for you and your families.
