By Marilyn and Joe Sparling
Carolina Meadows invited residents to a special outdoor celebration on December 3, 2020 from 5:30pm to 6:30pm. The Marketplace showcased 4 large holiday themed window displays. We were reminded of the elaborate department store windows at Macy’s. One window transported us back in time to relive memories of old-fashioned holiday cards, glass tree ornaments, a vintage record player with an album of Nat King Cole, and colorful knitted stockings to be filled with a variety of treats.
Another window featured 2 large reindeer with lights and a delightful tree decorated with big round balls of intricately woven twigs. Nestled in the tree were several cleverly designed little owls made from other natural materials.
“Home for the Holidays” showed the word “HOME” in large block letters, made from wood and metal, sitting atop a home waiting to be roofed in. Apartment buildings with brightly lit windows flanked each side of the home.
The remaining window was filled with a large tree, decorated with a variety of shiny gold and silver ornaments and little cards highlighting Carolina Meadows 35th anniversary. A table was set with a bottle of champagne and empty glasses ready to be filled for the anniversary celebration.
After viewing these beautiful windows, one could walk on to the Club Center to enjoy a cup of hot cider or hot chocolate and a cookie while listening to some holiday music. Near the main entrance to the club center another window featured a large Menorah with shining silver and blue candles, reminding us that this is a season of light for many faiths.
We took a short stroll down to the Activities Building Courtyard which was ablaze with hundreds of tiny white lights. There were tables and chairs to encourage conversation and relaxation.
What a welcome and inventively planned evening out to usher in the 2020 holiday season!
