December 3rd – A Merry Little Road Trip Ahead

Good morning, friends!

I’ve got a full and festive day on tap, and I couldn’t wait to share it with you.

This morning, I’ll be right in the heart of South Hill, Virginia, helping judge the annual Lamp Post Decorating Contest. I love this town.

DID YOU KNOW? My 2025 release, A South Hill Christmas Keepsake, was inspired by the real town of South Hill, Virginia? If you aren't too far away, you should hop on over for the Hometown Holiday festival this weekend. Pssst--I'll be signing books at 10am at 313 Franklin and in the parade on Sunday.

There’s something about those clever decorations that brings out the very best of this town. The creativity amazes me… and I have a feeling choosing a winner is going to seem downright impossible, but we'll get the job done! It'll have to be easier than judging the Halloween costumes this year! Here's a picture of us looking out over the crowd. One at a time those kids marched up and we judged and scored them. The guys from Butterfly Rose and I had our hands full! *That's me in the black shirt with the purple jacket on my chair. Rain chased inside for a last minute shift in plans, but it all turned out perfectly, as things just seem to do in South Hill!

Stay tuned for pics of this years winners of the Christmas Lamp Post competition later this weekend.

I caught a peek at a couple of the entries. They are looking good!

As soon as the Lamp Post judging wraps up, I’ll hop in the car and make the drive from South Hill, Virginia to Advance, North Carolina for one of my favorite traditions of the season: the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Oak Valley Country Club.

This will be my fifth year signing books at this event, and every single one has had its own charm.We’ve had years so cold the tree lighting felt like a sprint. One magical year with a snow machine sprinkling “flurries” over the crowd. And one evening so mild I signed books outside, warm as could be, right across from the hot chocolate truck. Mercy, what a treat that was.

However the weather shakes out this time, one thing is certain: it’s always a wonderful night. Folks come bundled in joy, excitement, and that sweet holiday spirit that makes my heart just glow. Meeting readers, sharing stories, and watching that tree blaze to life never gets old.

If you’re in the Advance, NC area this evening, I’d sure love to see you there. And wherever you are today, I hope you find a little sparkle and something to smile about.

Merry December, y’all. The season is officially in full swing. 🎄✨

Hugs!

Nancy

www.nancynaigle.com