On this clear cold Christmas morning, I want to wish everyone a peaceful and joyous holiday and a new year filled with love and prosperity. I have not found much time for writing lately, but I want to share some of the beautiful sights of the season in historic Frederick.

As the temperature drops in November, the city of Frederick begins its transformation into a sparkling holiday wonderland. Cranes gently drop boats into Carroll Creek for Sailing Through the Winter Solstice, each boat created by a local business to support the charity of their choice. To me, this is the beginning of the holiday season in Frederick and it really is quite magical.

On the day after Thanksgiving, Frosty Friday sparks up the holiday shopping season with free gifts, special sales, and live music throughout downtown Frederick. From there, the cheer keeps coming with the Kris Kringle Procession delivering the jolly man and his friends to the Baker Park bandshell for carol singing and lighting the City Tree. Every weekend finds Christmas Markets throughout the city, live music in the streets, and glowing storefronts.

While it might be hard to drag myself out in the cold some days, the festive streets of Frederick always lift my spirit and remind me that, despite the struggles and heartbreak that life can bring, there is still beauty and joy in the world. It is all around us. May you find the beauty, joy, and love surrounding you during this holiday season!