Tonight was truly magical in our county as we celebrated our annual Country Christmas on the square, a beloved tradition that takes place every year on the weekend before Thanksgiving. The streets were glowing with holiday lights, families gathered in warm coats, and the air was filled with the scent of hot chocolate from vendors set up along the sidewalks. Children laughed and ran across the square with candy canes in hand, while parents chatted with neighbors they may not have seen since last year’s celebration. It felt like the warmth of small-town community at its best.
One of the highlights of the event is always the Polar Express display, set up right in the center of the square. Behind Christian in this photo, the train brings endless joy to kids and adults alike as it sprays fluffy, sparkling snow into the air, transforming the evening into a winter wonderland—even if the weather outside is mild. The night becomes a perfect backdrop for both holiday excitement and cherished memories.
Santa also arrived in grand fashion, waving from a decorated float as children lined up eagerly for the chance to tell him their Christmas wishes. It’s moments like these that make this tradition so special and worth waiting for each year.
And of course, I just had to share this photo of Christian at the event. Looking at him tonight, standing tall and smiling with lights twinkling around him, it struck me how much he’s grown. He looks so much like a teenager now—confident, happy, and ready for all the adventures ahead. He’s not a baby anymore, and while that realization tugs a bit at the heart, it also fills it with pride. Nights like this remind us just how quickly time passes and how important it is to treasure every moment.