IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE.....IN ENCINITAS

Tonight was the annual holiday parade in our little town by the sea. Not your typical parade, but our little parade. Let's see, there were kids on skate boards dressed like elves, a group of restored "woodies", decked out cruising happily along, lots of adorable brownies and cub scouts, dressed up as Christmas trees, angels and Grinch. We cheered as the firemen, policemen and local officials proudly strut their stuff. We had our YMCA Indian tribes, dressed in traditional Native American garb and cute Indian princesses, along with their moms and dads, decorated wagons and family dogs sporting Santa hats and bells!

We must not forget our Hawaiian dancers, and our local high school marching bands. And to honor the reason for the season, various church floats depicting Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus in the manger.

In the early years of living here, my daughter Ali rode on the floats with her fellow classmates, and Courtney played flute in the middle school band.

I thought it would be cold, so I wrapped a scarf around my neck, put on my leather jacket and ugg boots. Hah! I would have been more comfortable in flip flops and a pair of capris!

All the restaurants and great shops were open along Highway 101 They were graciously handing out free hot chocolate and warm cider. I ran into a few people I hadn't seen in years. I sat there realizing how lucky I am to live in WARM Southern California, where the community is diverse and friendly, and can come together to celebrate the holidays in our own unique way.

Sorry I don't have pictures, the flash is broken on my camera!

19 DAYS TILL CHRISTMAS!