There are very few nights that everything runs as smooth as last night did, especially for a Monday. When I got home from work, dinner was ready, kids were bathed and everyone was in an awesome mood. Dinner was perfect, neither child complained about dinner and no fights! Just as I was going to suggest we snuggle up and watch Frosty, the Snowman, my adoring husband asked if we would like to drive around and look at the Christmas lights in our St. Augustine golf course community.  I remembered that the World Golf Village social committee has an annual contest for the best light display from the King & Bear and Slammer & Squire and we needed to place our votes.

We loaded up in the mini-van with our hot chocolates and a Mannheim Steamroller c.d. boomin’ and began cruisin’ the streets looking for our favorite light displays to vote for. Apparently we were not the only family with this brilliant idea. The neighborhoods were decorated so beautifully. Streets were lined with twinkling snowflakes, jolly snowmen and whimsical blowups of Santa. There were “ooooohs” and “aahhhhs” from the back seat. The girls wanted to sit in front of many of the St. Augustine golf course homes and watch the dancing lights. I was reminded of how beautiful the world is looking at it through my daughters’ eyes. I saw magic and awe and I was reminded of the simple ways to really enjoy this magical season.

The light-hearted and fun contest was started in 2007 by Charles Stamm, president of the social committee. The first year there were 45 votes; in the past two years votes have topped over 3,500. Charles wanted to get the kids involved and recognize the homeowners for their hard work. You can vote everyday, up to ten times. There will be an award banquet at Caddyshacks on December 29, 2010 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.  Prizes will be given out for the top 3 best light displays. Winners will enjoy gift certificates for Caddyshacks, Nonna’s Cucina Italiana Restaurant, Wildflower Café, Honours Golf Legends Grille at the Slammer & Squire or Champions Grille at King  & Bear. Vote now for your favorite display!