Oakridge Tree Lighting event draws good crowd to receive Santa

by JOHN ROSS/for The Herald  —  The mulled cider was hot, the fireside warm and cookies at outdoor temperature for the eagerly-awaited arrival of Santa and his sweetie at Saturday-eve’s Parade of Lights.

Throngs of energized children with parents in tow manifested under misty Oakridge skies to express their wishes and canter excitedly about as they always have and probably always will. Santa’s flashing fire engine ‘sleigh’ arrived a tad later than expected, which allowed for more time to consume abundant trays of sugary treats circulated freely among the huddled villagers.

While some youngsters eagerly pressed forward, others held awkwardly back passing on their chance to tell Santa firsthand their heart’s desires for wrapped gifts under decorated trees by December 25^th or the night before.

Concluding the event, dozens of gift boxes of colorful Christas light strings shortened to wear as necklaces were swiftly handed out. Moments before, ‘helper’ and City Administrator James Clevenger electrified the lights on the living cedar tree graciously shared by the neighboring Art Works studio and gallery.

 

And then, in short order, revelers slipped quietly into the night, homeward toward visions of sugar plums dancing in heads, children warmly nestled, snugly in beds. In a fortnight, out on lawns should arise such a clatter all will spring from beds to see what is the matter. They will fly to the shutters, throw open the sash and Saint Nick should appear to kick off the bash.

Or so the story goes—year after year. Same chapters, same verse, 365 days to shop and rehash—turkey, stuffing, pudding and pies. Cranberries, whipped cream, hard sauce and sighs.

And every Who in Whoville, will awake and begin singing:

Fah who foraze! Dah who doraze!

Welcome Christmas! Bring your cheer!

Fah who foraze! Dah who doraze!

Welcome all who’s far and near!

And the Grinch will, once again, fail to steal Christmas and maybe—just maybe—learn what it’s really all about.