Photo Courtesy of Tyler Ingram

Every year around this time, most people are finishing their mad scramble at shopping malls and department stores, hoping to get the perfect gift for their loved ones.  We’re rushing to get everything wrapped, the perfect dinner made, and a festive outfit for the occasion to top it all off.  Although our intentions are good, we could be losing sight of what’s really important. 

Call me old fashioned or a walking cliche, but the real meaning of Christmas isn’t about gift giving or credit card maxing.  It’s not about boosting retail sales or getting bombarded with TV, radio, and internet ads about what to buy, how to buy it, and where to buy it.  It’s about being truly grateful for your life and everything in it.  It’s a time to give a bit of yourself to someone whether you decide to donate to a charity, lend an extra hand, or simply to pass on the fuzzies by smiling at a stranger.   So slow down the pace and enjoy the present moment, spend time with friends and family, and nurture yourself and everyone around you.   There’s something so energizing about being in a room full of people you love. 

We have seen so many wonderful families come through the Capilano Suspension Bridge and we wanted to thank everyone who has helped make Canyon Lights this year such a great success!  With over 8,000 visitors so far to our festival of lights event, we have raised $20,000 for the BC Professional Firefighter’s Burn Fund Association.  It has been so great to see people coming together for a great cause and enjoying everything that makes this time of year so great. 

We’re wishing everyone a happy holidays and look forward to starting 2010 off in a great way!