If there is ever any question that Highlands is a special town, the annual Christmas parade removes all doubt. What a special community event! Whether you are an onlooker or participating, it is not to be missed.
There are always the old stand-by entries such as the antique thunderbirds, the garden club and their little “dance number”, the tricked-out portajohn, Rotary, the “local” children whose theme this year was the Polar Express, the Humane Society including so many four-legged friends in need of loving homes and it always ends with Santa. In addition though what makes the parade truly special is the live nativity scene.
Yes, a live nativity scene including camels who travel all the way from Athens, GA to participate. The funny part is that the camels love the attention. (Their owner said that if they did not want to be in the parade, you could not make them.) To be standing on the sidewalk and see camels approaching from the end of Main Street always sends a shock through the crowds. This year I had the honor of being Mary and riding the sweetest little donkey, Hannah through town being led by Joseph (Bill). This was such a thrill for our daughter Sarah, who was aboard The Polar Express in her penguin pajamas on-looking as she sees her mom and dad approach. She has surely never seen her dad with a beard and most surely her mom pregnant. On first glimpse, the nativity scene is funny as a friend told me but when you take it all in, it is quite inspiring. I know I had fun but also did not forget the important message being delivered.
After the parade, everyone goes in different directions. Some meet up with friends for bloody mary’s and those with children proceed to visit with Santa. To live in a “small” community where everyone knows your name seems to be a rare commodity these days but one we are thankful for every day.
Enjoy the photo of Sarah and Hannah and then check out the slideshow created by A Moment in Time Photgraphy.
