Last month I reported that Walker Valley is gearing up for our annual “Light up Walker Valley” contest with outdoor and indoor categories. Among the categories we have one for “The Grinch”. Usually, folks will do anything to avoid receiving that award, like at least putting a single candle in a window so they can say they decorated, except for one community member who I said last month would remain nameless – until now.

I reached out to Barbara Monell, who won the award in the past and why she embraced it.

“Christmas was not my favorite holiday growing up but when I had my two children, I tried to make Christmas memorable for them. We would watch “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and “Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer” but the Grinch with his fuzzy green fur was always my favorite. They have now grown and have families of their own. On Christmas I get to watch the excitement of my four grand babies. I guess you can say my heart grows seeing the smiles on their faces Christmas morning.”

As you can see by her pictures, she has a collection and this is only a ‘tip of the iceberg’ of what she has that she adds to every year. And her tree is also unique.

I was hoping to do more pictures than writing this month as The Valley is getting all gussied up for the Holidays. As I was going about taking in the multitude of decorations & lights that were popping up all over the place, each time I found some fantastic display there were several more in the same area. Folks have gone absolutely nuts this year with decorations. Not only are they doing their structures, but their whole front yards are turning into magical scenes and fantasy lands!

I could not pick a favorite even if my life depended on it so I kinda feel for the folks doing the judging this year. And to add to the variety, Charles Garrison, event coordinator, is doing a pool noodle decoration aspect and throwing that into the mix as well. Charlie would like the kids to make decorations out of pool noodles or similar materials to be displayed in Walker Valley. You must have your item ready to go by Dec. 20. Call him at 845.800.8431 for more information. I have included a few pictures of samples of what to do with the pool noodles.

Enjoy the pictures here, but the best thing I can say to you all is to make plans to come visit The Valley and take in all of the colors and fantastic decorations for yourself – you won’t be disappointed.