On Saturday November 30, an intrepid group of five Saint John’s folks braved the cold to go to see the Winterlights in North Andover, at the Stevens Coolidge Place. Maureen Lavely, John Quinn, Laura Carroll and her daughter Louisa,  and Catherine Womack all set out for the multi-mode trip, which involved cars, busses and travel on foot. 

Because of the popularity of the event, we had to park at a nearby school, and there was a school bus shuttle to the Winterlights. Maureen made herself comfortable in the school bus, enjoying the relatively warmer temperatures. Did I mention it was really cold outside?  After being dropped off, we braved the chilly winds in line, looking yearningly at the outside heater behind the registration table. I asked the parka-clad volunteer how she was, and she replied, “numb”.

We set off, and soon encountered a festive light tunnel-of-sorts. Perfect photo op! Laura and Louisa posed, as did Catherine.  The lights were varied and interesting and lovely. You can see them hung in trees, in the background behind John Quinn, and covering something that our group couldn’t decide whether it was a car, a hippo, or an igloo (igloo won out).

There were a few warm moments, provided by up-market hot cider for sale, and two complimentary fire pits. People were polite and didn’t push and shove to get closer to the warmth. Smoke was ignored, given the conditions, which, in case you’ve forgotten, were really really cold.   After an hour, we’d seen everything and were ready to head back to the warmer climes of the school bus, and cars to head home. We agreed it was fun, in large part because it was a chance to hang out and talk to each other, enjoying some seasonal festiveness.