A Very Merry Corry Christmas

 

The days before Christmas in the small town I call home have always been, for me, a special time. This season is no different. Picture this – it is the first Friday of December.  Amazingly -- it is above freezing here in NW PA as the sun sets, and ... it is not snowing for the first time in a couple of days.  ... so begins a fun evening in downtown Corry. It is the First Friday celebration.

Every lamp post on the Center Street is decorated with a wreath and lights, and this main thoroughfare is closed to traffic for a few blocks. There are horse and tractor drawn wagon rides – free to all.  Music is in the air everywhere. All the shop owners have removed every trace of snow from the sidewalks. It is safe walking (so nice for those of us who no longer think it is fun to slide on ice). Smiling people are milling about. Lots of Merry Christmases are to be heard. Small children are especially excited. It is hard to describe their smiles. Beyond wonderful! Heart touching.  Santa is here… as are Rudolph, the Grinch, and some darling elves.  Excitement is high. The shops are full. (Busy shops and photo ops.)  Food is available in every direction.  The local Rotary Club is offering hot chocolate to all passersby. The local champion dance team is performing in the decorated gazebo in the City Park. A crowd has gathered to watch. There are carolers moving about.  It is a "happening. It is a lovely evening all around. It is a Very Merry Corry Christmas.

What did I miss?  It was a gentle and festive start to the holiday season. Thank you, wonderful people of Corry. Again I must say … I love small town America. 

Merry Christmas! It will be here and gone before we turn around twice.  Enjoy!