Thursday, I drove to Tacoma at night, something I rarely do anymore. It was 4 days before Christmas and the Christmas lights and decorations downtown were completely underwhelming. Except for the bright ELF Storage sign, the little gold stars along the street posts are hardly noticeable. The red and green traffic signals are more festive. Tacoma, please get some new LED decorations, you are depressing!

But then tonight, Friday, I was driving home from making lefse at my sister’s. My car, with a sprig of holly on the dashboard, could not help but turn off 22nd Avenue into several of the new developments. With pride in their newer homes, many residents have invested heavily in lights, creativity, and effort. It was beautiful driving though there with the radio playing holiday music. Spanaway is lit! And no, I do not mean with the stuff that is now legal here. (Ok, maybe that to, but I digress.)

It really does seem to be a festive year for holiday lights. Spanaway is apparently not afraid of electric bills in January. Maybe the newer LED’s have inspired us with their lower operating cost. They certainly are bright! There are also lots of air-filled characters, Santas, reindeer, snow people, trucks, and Grinches, lots of Grinches! He is popular here!

I did spot one Bumble in a living room window. Someone is living with the Bumble in Spanaway, probably a dentist.

There are a few inflatables that are falling down on the job, however.

This display gets commendation for being the best without a bunch of lights padding the kilowatt hours on the power bill. Just a regular porch light here.

Years ago, I would give awards to some of the best Christmas lights. This year, I would be hard pressed to make a decision. Sadly, I do not have the time to pass out certificates anymore either. But I want you all to know, you are inspiring! And you beat the pants off Tacoma for being festive!

Here are a few more of the beautiful homes.

From all of us at the Pierce Prairie Post, to all of you, Merry Christmas! And thank you for your beautiful decorations!

But the prettiest sight you’ll see, is the holly that will be on your own dash board. <wink> I guess you don’t always need Fantasy Lights.