'Tis the season of lights

For James and Cindy McCloskey of Navarre, getting into the spirit of Christmas is not just a phrase; it’s a way of life.

The McCloskey’s house at 2010 Flamingo in Holley by the Sea is decorated to the nines with Christmas cheer, as well as lights, animatronics creatures and plenty of holiday cheer.

Penguins frolic on an artic pond, bears ride a carousel of swings and huskies pull a sleigh in the front yard which takes four full days to set up – and then some!

“It takes four full days to do the big stuff,” said James. The McCloskey’s start on Thanksgiving, preparing dinner the night before hand so they have enough time to get the decorations up.

“It’s usually four days after work to fix everything,” and arrange it all properly, James continued.

The McCloskey’s have been decorating their home for many years, ever since James was in the U.S. Air Force and the couple lived in base housing, before their children were born.

Now, decorating the home is a family affair. Children James, age 15, and Alyssa, age 9, are just as excited as their parents to put up all the trimmings.

For more on this story, see the Dec. 22 issue of Navarre Press, or subscribe online.