Welcome to Wayfaring Wednesday! My career as a real estate agent takes me all around Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas. Though I wasn’t born and raised here, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the unique blend of urban and rural charm this region offers over the last 20 plus years that I have called this region home. Wayfaring Wednesday is a Newsletter for www.wayfaringLancaster.com my Buy Local- Buy Small initiative.

My passion for small businesses stems from my varied experience in Commercial and Residential Real Estate. I am captivated by the vibrant communities and quaint towns that dot the landscape of Lancaster County. I am inspired by the business owners that build this rugged terrain. I invite you to explore and enjoy Lancaster with me, discovering its hidden gems and embracing the sense of community that makes this area truly special. And of course I will share relevant real estate and homeownership tips that should interest you along your journey. Wayfarer on!

I think one of the reasons A Christmas Story has been so popular is that so many people can relate to how the high expectations of Christmas and the hard reality of the season collide. As a mom, stepmom, and adoptive mom, I know firsthand that I have to manage expectations for the season while also keeping the thrill and excitement alive. It's always a balance between reality—like saying, "No, that gift's not appropriate, and you might hurt someone's feelings"—and the dreamlike magic of sugar plum fairies and BB guns.

How do I do that? Well, I will never profess to be great at it. In fact, I'm not always sure how well I manage. Keeping expectations in check while preserving the magic of the season is a delicate balancing act, but it’s possible with a few mindful strategies. Here are some ways I’ve found that help:

1. Set Realistic Expectations
   It’s easy to get swept up in the holiday hype, but it helps to remember that not everything needs to be perfect. Christmas doesn’t have to be a Hallmark movie. Acknowledge that things might not always go according to plan, and that's okay. By managing expectations early on—like not expecting every gift to be a hit or every holiday gathering to be flawless—you can avoid disappointment.

2. Focus on Traditions, Not Perfection
   Instead of trying to make everything perfect, focus on what makes the season special for your family. Maybe it’s baking cookies together, watching certain movies, or taking a walk to see the lights in the neighborhood. These moments of connection can be more meaningful than extravagant decorations or expensive gifts.

3. Simplify Gift Giving
   Gift-giving can often be a major source of stress and unmet expectations. Set a budget and stick to it. It’s not about how much you spend, but the thought and care behind the gift. Consider giving experiences instead of things—like tickets to a concert or a fun family outing. Or, go for personalized gifts that reflect the recipient’s interests. This way, you’re making meaningful memories, not just fulfilling a wish list.

4. Involve Everyone in the Process
   When everyone gets involved in planning, there’s less room for disappointment. Have the kids help with decorating, choosing gifts, or even planning a fun holiday activity. When they’re part of the process, the season becomes more about shared experiences than unattainable ideals.

5. Take Time to Reflect and Be Present
   Amid all the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to lose sight of the true meaning of the season. Take time to pause and reflect on what really matters—whether it’s your faith, family, or simply being together. Emphasize being present in the moment rather than trying to check off a never-ending list of holiday tasks.

6. Communicate Openly
   Clear communication with family members about expectations, financial limits, and holiday plans can help reduce misunderstandings. It’s important to remember that not everyone shares the same ideas about what makes a perfect holiday, so being upfront about your boundaries or what you can realistically do is key.

By focusing on the real, simple joys of the season and managing our own expectations, we can create a holiday filled with magic—without all the stress. The key is remembering that the magic isn’t in perfection; it’s in the people we share it with and the love we give.

Best Christmas Lights in Pennsylvania
Top Displays for Holiday Cheer

Pennsylvania shines brightly during the holidays with magical light displays and festive events! Here are some must-see attractions:

1. Bright Nights at WellSpan Park (York) – Over 3 million lights, Santa visits, and fun activities like ornament-making and a polar bear slide. (Nov. 15–Dec. 30)

2. Hershey Sweet Lights (Hershey) – A two-mile drive-through wonderland with animated displays. Tune in to festive music while you explore. (Nov. 15–Jan. 1)

3. Stone Hedge Festival of Lights (Tunkhannock) – Drive through millions of lights, then warm up with food and vendors in a cozy pavilion. (Nov. 27–Dec. 31)

4. Enchanted Lights (Freedom) – A walk-through light show with s’mores, hot chocolate, and visits from Santa. (Nov. 29–Dec. 31)

5. Christmas Light Experience (Stevens) – Zipline through lights or stroll through the expanded walkways featuring over 500,000 lights. (Nov. 29–Jan. 5)

6. A Longwood Christmas (Kennett Square) – Longwood Gardens dazzles with festive trees, light displays, and carolers. (Nov. 22–Jan. 12)

7. Koziar’s Christmas Village (Bernville) – A million twinkling lights transform this village into a fairyland. (Nov. 2–Jan. 2)

8. Shady Brook Farm Holiday Light Show (Morrisville) – See whimsical displays with 3 million lights by car or wagon ride. (Nov. 23–Jan. 5)

9. Christmas Magic (York) – A Festival of Lights at Rocky Ridge Park with a half-mile walking trail of dazzling displays. (Nov. 29–Dec. 30)

10. Winter Lights Spectacular (Schnecksville) – Over 1.2 million lights at the Lehigh Valley Zoo, complete with fire pits, treats, and character visits. (Nov. 29–Dec. 31)

Get a bigger place to celebrate the holidays next year. Make it your New Years Resolution: text me at 717-475-1363.

Video About Me (in case your curious): Click Here