Three Mile Bend lost a little of its holiday sparkle this season.
Some of the Christmas decorations that visitors hang on trees and memorial benches along the paths went missing, or were broken this year, said a regular Three Mile Bend dog walker.
Brenda Morris, who walks her border collie-cross Lady just about every day at the off-leash park and recreation area, said the tradition of decorating the trails has been going on for years. About 35 trees had a baubles or garland this month.
“Especially this year when it’s been so bleak, and everything you hear is so dark, it just adds some sparkle and shine. It just brightened things up. It made things look more cheery,” Morris said.
“There might just be one ornament on a tree, or there might be a whole bunch. It’s so pretty when there’s some snow on them, or the sun is shining on them.”
She said children run from tree to tree along the trails looking for decorations. They also like to bring decorations from home to decorate branches that they can reach.
On Christmas Eve, one of the Three Mile regulars dressed up as Santa to the delight of youngsters.
“The kids have had so much fun. With COVID, there’s more people choosing Three Mile to go for a short walk to get some fresh air. I think it kind of sparkles up their life too.”
Morris even saw a dog take notice.
“There was one bauble that caught his eye. I guess he thought it was his ball up there in the tree. It was hilarious. He was jumping about four feet in the air. He was just focused on that ball in the tree.”
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Morris decorated a few trees this year and the memorial bench for her dog Mate. Unfortunately decorations on the bench went missing.
“I’ve had to repair, or replace the stuff, two or three times. It was disappointing. I’m not sure why this year. I think people are just not themselves this year.
“I guess you take your chances.”
She said some people have already removed their ornaments, but some still hang for visitors to enjoy.
“For those that are walking there regularly, it’s become another little community. You know the dogs. You know the people.”
szielinski@reddeeradvocate.com
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