San Miguel de Allende, Mexico / December 2015 –

I was walking through the Jardin (town square) about two weeks ago and I’d just missed the ‘official’ lighting of the Christmas tree in the main square in front of the Parroquia (church) but there was still a lot of celebrating going on. I wanted to capture the revelry but the lighting wasn’t cooperative. Flash at a distance is hopeless and available lighting would be muddy and blurred, so I focused on getting the Christmas tree and star and the church steeple and cross.

Taking the photo at a low angle made them near equals, even though the tree was only about 25 to 30 feet tall. I’ve watched them decorate it several times over the past three Christmases. It really dominates the Jardin and is a focus for families and children. It always fascinates me that the Mexicans celebrate Christmas just like us Canadians and Americans, with a tree and reindeer and snow and wreathes. It’s always impressive!

Christmas is about spending time with our loved ones and being thankful for what we have because a lot of people don’t have what we have. So be gracious and giving!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all!