Oh, I still remember that Christmas when General “Stonewall” Jackson played Santa Claus (he had the best beard in camp).  He walked from tent-to-tent passing out hardtack.  Of course, he was slowed a bit as he needed to put down the bag each time before he reached in for a present.  But, golly, he gave the Yankees a Christmas they never forgot! 

This place is only several blocks away from the other two most gaudy displays I’ve seen in the city.

If Clark Griswold was a Civil War buff, this is what his place would look like in December.  Santa could see it from 35-thousand feet.  The owner also goes to great lengths for Halloween.  In October I posted some pictures at the Newsradio 1310 KLIX Facebook page.  A reader accused me of photoshopping away the Stars and Bars.  No, it was my angle and there were leaves on the tree.

This place is only several blocks away from the other two most gaudy displays I’ve seen in the city.

I’m not complaining.  I admire the effort.  Last week I saw a guy in my neighborhood stringing lights and inflatables.  During a windstorm.  You know it wasn’t his idea.  His better half wanted it finished before the end of Thanksgiving weekend.  So, he followed orders like any good soldier would, be he Confederate or Union.

Inflatables and the plastics have replaced the light displays of my childhood.  In those days, half-a-century ago, lights and maybe a nativity were all people really had for decoration.  Then came a design revolution and icicle lights and here we are, surrounded by whatever our neighbors can create.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

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