As many people know, the Holidays are meant to be one of the happiest times of the year. Spreading the Holiday season to all is how we show appreciation for each other in the chilly Winter season. Part of that appreciation is the good news that we share between each one of us. This good news could be anything, from having a really great Christmas present to successful deliverance of water to communities that need it. Like we always say here, there’s plenty of good news out in the World, you just have to know where to look for it.
In Hutchinson there is a wonderful bit of good news for the people who struggle with financial means. The Noel Lodge, which is an emergency daytime and overnight shelter for people who struggle with homelessness, is set to receive 25 more beds, and just in time for the holiday season. Adequate housing and support for all is important this time of year and any support stories we hear are so important to share.
If you want a Hippopotamus for Christmas, this is the story for you. Or rather, you can consider this a sign to visit Tanganyika Wildlife Park. The Park service welcomed a newborn Pygmy Hippopotamus into the world on December 14th. What are you waiting for? Go get your tickets, and maybe the hippopotamus’s will like you too!
In McPherson, there are several good indicators of the Christmas season. One of which, was the latest Parade of Lights. The Lakeside Park is currently decorated with lights of the season for the Holidays, I would encourage you to go down and take a look if you’re in the area. They are quite spectacular. I myself, particularly enjoyed the light display on at the swimming pool area in McPherson. If you’re not in the area, not to worry, there are plenty of different light shows taking place in just about every large town in the state. Botanical Illuminations will always hold a special place in my heart for their fantastic light displays.
Meeting Santa Claus as a child is one of the most awkward and special memories you can have as a child. But for this special young deaf girl, it was certainly unlike many others. Luckily, it is becoming more common in our world to have individuals who are trained in ASL in childcare. Such a time was had when this girl went to tell Santa exactly what she wanted, but wasn’t able to communicate with him. One of Santa’s helper elves jumped right in to help her relay her message to Father Christmas. Seeing the video of her face lighting up in recognition, is just about all the Christmas cheer one needs.
If any of you visited Minnesota this Christmas season I hope you managed to see the World Snow Sculpting Championships. I have never been more impressed with the artwork, nor diminished from thinking of my own, feeble snowman making abilities. Even if you’re not visiting Minnesota, I would encourage you to look up some pictures because my goodness are they pretty good.
With all that being said, I think it’s important to note that Christmas cheer exists all around us. Not only that, but take some time to create some. The simple act of doing something nice for someone else is quite a special act to witness. Of course, as many good Christmas stories state, one good deed always sparks another.
