We're not quite like the Aussies here - you can't guarantee it'll be balmy enough for Christmas dinner on the beach and sadly it looks like rain tomorrow. But last night was warm and tropical and along with what seemed like half the town, I checked out the arboretum, where different groups decorate and light up the trees. It was an adventure, with kids running excitedly around and signs warning about trip hazards like cables. First, one of those "only in Florida" moments.
The gazebo was nicely decorated with tasteful Christmas music emanating - I didn't hear "Frosty" once.
Although it was rivalled by a decorated golf cart parked on the road blasting out some unrecognisable noise that might or might not have been Christmassy. But let's give them the benefit of the doubt.
Here was our Golden Beach display, with the yellow historical marker and benches to watch the sunset.
The Lions' Club charity had an appropriate theme - and in the background some classic Florida Christmas Palms. Not so silly - palm trees must have figured in the First Christmas.
There seemed to be a bit of an animal theme.
Including Rudolph with his shiny nose. Natch.
Somehow there seemed to be fewer displays this year - there were almost more lights festooned on the onlookers - picking their way in the dark with the help of glowing garlands and flashing mobile phones than on the trees. Well that's an exaggeration. But I'm guessing the last couple of big hurricanes did for some of the trees. And where were the Nativity scenes? I'm sure there used to be at least one or two displays from the churches.
Walking back along the island roads, there was my old favourite the jetskiing Santa
With Prancer (or was it Dancer?) clinging onto the back.
Then in one of the Golden Beach front gardens - I might be wrong but there was something that did look remarkably like...
A Nativity scene!
Hooray for them and a very Happy (Merry) Christmas!
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