Illumination Night

I listened to an interview on NPR this afternoon with Elizabeth Warren, our Massachusetts Senator and came away with an enlightening little tidbit! Instead of making a "to do list" Elizabeth makes "get to do list." That changes everything! By just thinking of how lucky we are that we "get to do" things....it can shift our attitude about them.

Last night I "got to" hang out with my good friend Jane and her family and friends at their seaside home. The evening started with a lobster feast....and ended walking the streets of Ocean Park for "Illumination Night."

Every year around this time the neighborhoods pull together and light up their little town using Christmas and novelty lights, candles, glow-in-the dark trinkets...and just about anything else you can think of.  Every year Jane's family does some creative installation on the front of their house and this year it was an octopus.

It wasn't quite dark when I took this photo....but it gives you a better perspective of the size.  They create it on chicken wire on the ground...then raise it up and attach it to the front of the house.  They certainly get the prize for the most fun.

There was a festive vibe all around town....the streets and porches were full of happy people and kids. I love events like this where communities pull together to make something happen....for the sake of tradition and just the fun of it.  

Although there was the threat of rain all night we did get a glimpse of the nearly full moon through the clouds.  The ocean is just over those dunes and the beach was filled with people and illuminated with light. Holes were dug in the sand and candles could be placed in honor of those who were in need of a prayer.

Thanks Jane for including me in on your illumination night festivities!