Dear editor,

Here鈥檚 a shout-out to all those who decorated for the holidays.

Although officially a 鈥済rumpy old man,鈥� I confess my old cold heart was warmed by the many public displays of those who embraced the spirit of the season. How wonderful it must have been for small children to see homes lit up, wreaths on doors, and figures of Santa, Frosty, (and perhaps even a smiling Grinch) frolicking in the yards and windows of their neighbours.

And hopefully, the Christmas Caravan made it to your street. When it rolled down ours with lights blinking, Christmas music blaring, and horns tooting, the excitement level of the kids was through the roof!

Yes, decorating requires time and money. But what a marvellous return in terms of 鈥渕aking spirits bright,鈥� especially for the children.

Thank you people of the valley! And to all a good night!

Donald Douglas,

Courtenay