small modern living blog - some mystical breath

On our way to celebrate Christmas at our tiny house, we stopped in Duluth to experience the acclaimed Bentleyville, “tour of lights.” In the summer, Bayfront Festival Park is home to our favorite bluegrass concerts. In the winter, it transforms into a wonderland of intricate holiday lights on full display to onlookers searching for the holiday spirit.

Living in the Twin Cities, we heard anecdotes over the years of how the display has grown into a regional destination. This is the first year I can remember that the Northern part of Minnesota was without snow for Christmas and offered moderate temperatures. That was the motivation we needed to make a pit stop on our way to the cabin.

We were one of the first families lined up for the countdown - All at once millions of lights turned on and my son was rendered speechless by the suspense. The illuminated environment seemed to come alive as we began our self-guided exploration. My daughter wanted to stop and count the lights, appreciating each display with care and interest. My son eagerly ran through, pointing at the signs and images that transformed this muddy bluegrass venue into a spectacular holiday showcase.

As we approached the paths adjacent to Lake Superior, the mild wind blew across my face as if it were some mystical breath. Lake Supeior fog covered the landscape and I remained, counting each light as they passed - My daughter completely mezmorized with holiday cheer.