Friday, November 5, 2021

Belle of the Ball - The Night of Lights from the Water



by Adrilia Pedersen

We had planned the event many months before. We had bought the tickets, but it was going to be cold that evening. We wondered if we could still do it. Our moms were in town, but they were both limited in their energy and their mobility. We told them about it and they were a little scared at first but then excited. So we bundled up, bringing extra scarves and blankets just in case, and of course our COVID masks. We decided to make the best of it. My husband took his time helping his mother walk the Vilano Pier, sitting to rest whenever her legs hurt too much. I took my time walking arm in arm with my mom making sure she felt safe and supported. We were happy to see people fishing off the pier, it lent a fun casual atmosphere to the occasion. The pontoon approached and we headed down the ramp, easily onto the boat. I had thought that St. Augustine’s holiday lights might just be “meh” after having seen them many times before while walking. I was wrong. Seeing the lights, the bridges, the haunted lighthouse from the water was dazzling -- as if we had traveled somewhere else and were all on vacation. Our moms were bundled up, they loved every minute of our mini adventure together. It was a magical and unforgettable evening. St. Augustine all dressed up in holiday splendor looked spectacular when seen from the water. An old yet vibrant city, belle of the ball, looking out to sea … remembering glory. This holiday season my dear, beautiful mom no longer with us, I will look at the lights, celebrate her zest for life … and cherish the memories.

Adrilia Pedersen lives in St. Augustine's World Golf Village with her husband Ken. She loves exploring nature and wellness, walking, writing and decorating cookies.