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The Holidays have officially arrived....

....as if they weren't upon us back in October, even. Today we made our annual trek to Yankee Candle in historic Deerfield, MA. We arrived at 5 pm, and unfortunately we missed an appearance by Department 56 artist Cynthia Markle, who is responsible for many of the village accessories such as trees, animals, and other accessories. We had never been to the Candle in the evening, and we were awestruck by the lights on display outside. It was spectacular. If you haven't been there before, this is the flagship store, about the size of 4 Target stores. The store is divided into several small villages of shops, with many themed ornament displays, candle displays, and of course a full section of elaborate D56 displays. There is an educational toy store, a home and garden store, a Bavarian cafe, a candy and sweets shop, and much more. Every year they add more.

Of course, on the way home, we stopped at Bub's barbecue, a small restaurant which is usually packed. It's near Umass and attracts many students there all through the day. The BBQ is authentic and homestyle, with a great chicken soup and side dish bar. Well worth the 6 miles trek on the way back from the Candle.

Next week we have our annual Elf Night, where thirty adults get together wearing PJs with their kids, ridiculous amounts of sugary delights, make Belgian Waffles, and watch "Elf", an underrated holiday classic. Of course, my wife will have put her reindeer antlers on her car for the first time this season.

Thursday, of course, is Thanksgiving, and football, and multiple naps.

Friday may end up seeing either the lights in Constitution Plaza in Hartford, Goodwin Park's light display, or Bright Nights in Springfield, MA.

...and it's only the beginning!

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