The subject for Nancy Merrill’s Photo A Week Challenge is Lit From Within and, although I hadn’t intended to participate this week, the opportunity to capture some appropriate pictures presented itself quite by chance and so here is my take on the challenge. For the past three weeks I’ve been spending much of the time at the hospital visiting my 93-year-old mother-in-law. Sadly she has reached the stage where nothing more can be done for her and has been moved to more comfortable surroundings in hospice there. The only bright spot in these rather gloomy days has been the sight of the Christmas Village that has been set up in the lobby of the hospital. Apparently, the man who owns all these lovely ornaments brings them in every Christmas for everyone to enjoy. Thank you, whoever you are! You have helped to lighten our load.
For more on Nancy’s Photo A Week Challenge go to Lit from Within.
Getting the Picture 
Charming photos. Difficult situation. My heart goes out to you and your family.
Thank you for your kind thoughts.
Nice use of the theme “lit from within”. Sorry to hear about your mother-in-law. Always tough.
Thank you, Steve.
Sue, be happy that she has seen much life…had her good times, lived her life to the full…
Lovely pictures!
Thanks, Indira. She certainly has lived her life to the full and, as of this moment, is still holding on. She’s a fighter!
How good to have a glimpse of light at a gloomy time.
Yes, Tom, this has been a welcome sight every day for the past 4 weeks now.
Sorry to hear about your mother-in-law, with the hope that both her life and death have been peaceful. What beautiful photos of the Christmas village and the story of one man’s generosity to cheer people up at this time of year!
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment. It was much appreciated.
Prayers to your family. Ninety-three years on earth sounds like a full life. I’ve always loved village displays. Good shots.
Thank you so much for your kind thoughts, Chris!
A sad time for you and your family. Lovely pics, and a beautiful story. How kind of this person! Prayers for peace for you all.
Thanks so much, Jane! It’s a day to day situation where we never know what to expect but the family has been amazing.
I am so sorry to hear about your mother-in-law. Hospice came to help my father at the end of his life, and we will be eternally grateful for their kindness to him. I love these photos. I have always loved Christmas villages. Thanks for joining the challenge! May you Christmas be warm and filled with love and joy.
Thank you so much for your kind wishes, Nancy.