Amongst the angst of our continuing pandemic, a scene brought joy. As the afternoon of Black Friday waned, looking out our shop windows, we noticed a young family: mother and father with two children pulling a classic red wagon.
Chatting, the four passed the Clyde W. Carter Memorial Gazebo alongside the Erie Canal in the Village of Spencerport. Decorative ruby red velvet bows affixed to draped emerald green garland and wreath above, snowflake banners displayed, crayon-colored lights were aglow on its festive tree and railings.
It was almost a Currier and Ives holiday greeting card, for in the red wagon was a Christmas tree! In the manner of tradition, at Firemen’s Field, a balsam or fir or pine (just-right) or spruce was selected from an array of fresh, staked trees.
Over the years, Boy Scout Troop #92 has sold trees and wreaths, sheltering in the little wooden building, protected from raindrops, cold flurries, wind gusts, or a mixture of the three. Do you remember?
This day, tied and trimmed, the chosen pine (just-right) was hoisted and rearranged (just-so). Crossing the parking lot, the chosen pine was readjusted for its journey. Slowly, slowly the family turned onto the historic lift bridge, meandering northward.
Surely they must live nearby. Is a friendly dog awaiting their return? Ready to jump, tail wagging, at the first sound of the door latch. Giggling, would the children recount their adventure? Ornaments in boxes: favorite heirlooms, handmade creations, and Disney characters mingle. Construction paper chains, cut and glued, tangle with strings of lights – to become a happy, lifetime memory.
Young family, may you enjoy a blessed Merry Christmas 2020! Let us ALL take time to reflect. “Say Thanks, Be Giving.”
Simple pleasures: smiles and sunrises and sunsets – are free. Eat a cut-out cookie. Mail a note. Play a game. Read a book, turning paper pages. Reuse a gift bag and ribbon. Wear an old sweater. Take a walk. Wave to neighbors. Wonder at nature. Laugh and sing together – then listen to silence. Indulge in nostalgia…
Volunteer. Be a friend. Show goodness, kindness – and love. Pray for those who heal and those who protect. Teach tolerance.
Stay hopeful, positive – safe and strong. Our community spirit endures.
Wishing you Peace,
Carol J. Nellis-Ewell
Deputy Mayor, Village of Spencerport
