Day 328 – Christmas Cards and Tree Lighting

With all the holiday activities going on around town this weekend, it was hard to choose what to do for my intention today. I came across the coolest activity going on at the Seamen’s Church Institute which is a building I literally pass every day but have never been in. I wasn’t quite sure even what it was really. When we walked in I was surprised to see a beautiful grand room with a café and tables for eating and/or activities. Upon further wandering I realized that within that building not only is there the Aloha Café, there is the “Crows Nest” lodging facility and a chapel. This building was so unique in every way and completely charming to say the least.

So they were having an event called “Christmas Cards for Mariners”. The public was welcome to drop in to warm up with hot chocolate and write a Christmas card to be delivered to men and women serving on the seas this Christmas. This is such a large Navy town and I thought this would be a magnificent intention. Although we got there just moments before they were closing, I was able to fill out my card and I truly hope it brings joy and comfort to someone this season.

Afterwards, we went over to have a cocktail at our favorite spot- The Red Parrot. Then we walked around Bowen’s Wharf to take part in the festivities for a couple of hours. There was a live band caroling for quite some time and they were really good! The crowd was singing along, kids were dancing and even Frosty the Snowman was there. Vinny and I stopped to relax a bit with some warm drinks- I got hot chocolate and he got a cappuccino. We watched the sun set over the water and with the Christmas lights, music and people- it really was quite lovely.

We stayed for the countdown of the huge Christmas tree lighting and then we were off. Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived by boat and then there were fireworks- all to end a wonderfully festive evening. #HGAL #HappyHoliday