Gators, Glitter, and Getting Lit (Florida Style)

First things first—remember me saying before there’s a gator in the lake directly behind our house? Well, y’all… there IS a gator in the lake directly behind our house!

I’m talking real deal, tail-slappin’, sun-loungin’, Florida gator. I spotted him yesterday when I went out to snap a picture of this massive softshell turtle just chillin’ on the opposite bank. I’m zoomed in on the turtle, minding my own business, when I glance just slightly to the left and—boom—there’s Mr. Gator himself in all his glory. Probably five or six feet long, still young and on the lean side, but very much alive and making himself at home.

And since he’s clearly here to stay, I’ve decided he deserves a name. So, everyone, meet Barnaby—our new scaly Florida neighbor. Doesn’t that sound like a gator who minds his business but still knows all the lake gossip?

Anyway, I learned yesterday that around here in good ole Florida, folks start lighting everything up with Christmas lights this weekend! I’m used to Kentucky, where Light Up Bardstown and Light Up Louisville don’t happen until after Thanksgiving. But nope—not here. Apparently, down South, we skip the turkey and jump straight into tinsel.

Honestly, I’m not mad about it. I’ve waited all year for twinkle lights, Turbo Hot Cocoa (that’s hot cocoa with a shot of espresso—because sometimes the Christmas spirit needs a little caffeine), and that cozy glow that makes even palm trees look festive.

Saturday morning we’ll be up bright and early to take some holiday photos. I want to get a few shots of the boys for the season (because you know those are going straight on the Christmas cards) and then we need some new photos of “Santa” for our website and flyers. The big man himself—Michael—will be making his debut soon for our Simply Seen with Santa sessions, so stay tuned for that.

And then, at 5 p.m., they’re lighting up Wiregrass. You better believe I’ll be there—camera in hand, Christmas playlist ready, pretending it’s not still 80 degrees outside.

So yes, friends, Florida might have gators lurking behind your backyard, but it also gives you Christmas magic before the turkey’s even thawed. And honestly? I kind of love it.