Holidays are a time for traditions.  Unfortunately this year it hasn’t been feeling much like Christmas because we just haven’t found time for any of the typical traditions – tree, lights, baking, parties, family, etc.  I think we might be one of the only homes without lights and a tree up at this point!

I have managed one tradition so far though.  When I was growing up, my family would always take time after Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve to drive around our neighbor and look at the luminaries that lined the streets.  There’s something about the quiet of a winter’s night combined with the glow of candlelight that makes it feel like Christmas.

The Metropark system in Dayton holds Luminary Walks every year at a few of the parks.  Volunteers line the paths with hundreds (probably thousands really) of candles and then light all of them at dusk.  I decided to go to Cox Arboretum on Friday night and although it was FREEZING cold (by the end of 1.5 hrs, I couldn’t operate my tripod – not to mention my fingers nearly froze to the tripod once or twice!!) it’s an amazing sight to see.  If you’re ever in Dayton in December, you should check it out – but in case you don’t make it, here are some photos of the event!

And don’t let the cold keep you away in future years – there are wonderful volunteers who keep the fireplace going and plenty of hot chocolate & s’mores to warm up with!