And so this is Christmas…

December 18, 2013 by trudilee

By Tim Hauserman

Part of the process of becoming an adult is that we learn that the true spirit of Christmas is found through giving. Those of us who live at Lake Tahoe are lucky enough to get an extra opportunity to give, by sharing this incredible place with the crowds of folks who come to visit at Christmas time. We are excited you are here, because we have first hand experience that Tahoe’s incomparable beauty can bring you peace and joy.

Now, it might seem a bit oxymoronic to attempt to find peace in the very busy place that is Tahoe at Christmas time. But it can be found. One place to find it, is the lake itself, because our focus during the winter has turned towards the mountains. Head to the Commons Beach on a clear day and find inner peace as you gaze out at the snowcapped mountains reflected in the still mere of Lake Tahoe. You will also find peace by heading out into the high woods on a pair of snowshoes or cross-country skis. Eventually, you will find yourself in the midst of a forest of western white pines and dark green hemlocks. Stop and listen to the gentle sound of needles caressing each other in the breeze.

Once you have found your Tahoe peace, it’s time for some joy. You may find it merely by walking through downtown Tahoe City on an early evening just before Christmas. The shops and streets are lit up sparkling white, and the people are laughing and telling stories of their daytime adventures. You will also find joy carving turns through ribbons of white, as you marvel at the deep blue of Tahoe in the distance. Of course to truly experience the joy of carving those turns, we need some quick answers to our fervent prayers for the cold white stuff that comes from the sky.

Whether it is peace, joy or both that you seek, welcome to our little town. We hope you enjoy yourself, and find what you are looking for. And we urge you to share it with others, because the spirit of the holidays is to find the reflection of your joy in the faces of your friends and loved ones.