The Old Home Town Holidays

The roadways and airlines were said to have been setting records for holiday travel this year. Many of us welcomed our grown children, grandchildren, friends, and neighbors to gather at our tables. There we indulged until we could not eat another bite, maybe just one more taste of pie. Parades and football games were to be watched as some went on their yearly shopping endeavor to find the perfect price which would not leave our hands empty-handed as we walked away. And just like that, we find ourselves speeding mightily towards the Christmas season and the home towns had the activities to make that ride enjoyable. The Holmes Live Nativity visited NDHC on Sunday to share the story that is so close to the hearts of all. It was the first year without the live telling in the barn—a moment of silence in memory of Dwight Ollman who passed this past September. Sara, his wife was there to share the Christmas love for the both of them. Larimore had hosted a couple of days of activities to usher in the holiday cheer. Willy's Bar hosted kid's bingo. Santa and Mrs. Claus sat on their thrones over tables piled with toys. The place was full and the excitement filled the air. The Valerious American Legion Post 97 purchased all those toys. There was a stunningly beautiful way to end our Thanksgiving holiday because, for the second year, Northwood's Meadowlark 4-H club dazzled all those who walked through their Christmas tree walk. The dazzling lights on trees brought out many an inner child, all while eating cookies and drinking cocoa. Santa and his elves heard the Christmas requests and helped with arts & crafts. Thankfully, we were blessed with a much warmer day than the previous two, making a sleigh ride by Point Paradise Stables even more magical with the falling snow. One could say it was holding that scene in a snow globe. This was just the beginning as the small-town love in Northwood and Larimore is always looking for ways to bring our neighbors together.

It was the weekend before the Senior Citizen's Thanksgiving, and nothing was stirring, except for Audrey in the kitchen.

The ovens were full of wonderful Pumpkin and Pecan Pies, but hold on, there were 22 in all, including Chocolate Cream, Lemon Meringue, and the star of the show Sour Cream Raisin.

She arose from her slumber at 2 a.m. and threw on her apron to start some more cooking. Turkey, dressing, sweet potatoes, and more were prepared with love.

With the help of her husband, the roasters were loaded and off to the Senior Center for all to enjoy. The helpers filled the "To Go Boxes" and sent them out the door. The tables were set with Thanksgiving-themed dinnerware.

Friendly faces arrived and greeted each other as the smell of the turkey with all the fixings filled the air. Everyone enjoyed every bite which may have left some just a little bit sleepy. Nearly 160 were served for this celebration.

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