This year, with no Marsh Landing communitywide campaign to encourage luminary displays, Lisa Kessler suggested we create our own display in our special neighborhood known as “Lower Deer Haven.” Lisa funded the purchase of 600 white paper bags and votive candles. The Jameses donated several sandbags full of sand. Barb Wenger organized two assembly sessions in her garage to put the 600 luminaries together and the group distributed them with her Gator. Several young kids were enthusiastic helpers in the process. Bryce and Brady Lehman left a birthday party early to light the luminaries at sundown.
Much of the neighborhood (and many out-of-town family and friends) helped complete the lighting during half time of the Jaguars vs Broncos football game and then gathered at the O’Meara/Raynis home to enjoy time around a fire pit (or inside to watch the exciting second half by the victorious Jaguars). Even a few out-of-tune Christmas carols were sung!
The neighborhood had a quiet, sparkling, magical feel. Pictures don’t do it justice. There was something special about a group of neighbors coming together to celebrate a beautiful Christmas tradition and the celebration of the last night of Hanukkah.
The symbolism of the luminaries really fits our little neighborhood:
It truly was one of the highlights of our holiday season!
— Submitted by Barb Wenger, Spirited Ageing, LLC
