Columnist Barb Henderson: Holiday season sparkles with nature’s beauty

Barb Henderson

Friday, Dec. 6, 2002 | 9:48 a.m.

Barb Henderson is an outdoors enthusiast, freelance writer and producer/host of outdoors radio television programming. Her column appears Friday in the Sun.

December blows in and delivers a special magical outdoor connection with the holiday season.

With my religious beliefs and an appreciation of the out-of-doors, this is truly my favorite time of year.

Spectacular scenery, captured on the front of a holiday greeting card, embraces nature's beauty with the warmth of joy and love.

High among the ponderosa and bristlecone pine in the Spring Mountain National Recreation Area (SMNRA), the U.S. Forest Service reminds us to "think winter safety."

Wind, cold, snow or whiteout can quickly turn an outing into an accident or even a tragedy. Mountain driving can be unpredictable especially for those not used to driving in snow. Use caution. Carry tire chains, shovel, drinking water and basic tools at all times. There is no gas or mechanical services on the mountain so have a full tank of gas. Knowledge of the area, weather condition and a little common sense can ensure your outing is safe and enjoyable.

Reminder: There is no Christmas tree cutting allowed in the SMNRA.

Parade of lights

Holiday carols being sung by a choir musically bonds us with the outdoors.

This Saturday, the glitter of magnificent holiday lights will send a warm glow of holiday spirit to the water's edge of Lake Mead where spectators will gather to view the 26th Annual Parade of Lights sponsored by the Lake Mead Boat Owners Association. This unique parade offers boaters who enjoy these waters year-round and anglers who have replaced fishing tackle for decorations a magical night under starlit skies.

About 50 sail and powerboats, ranging from 16 to 60 feet, will start at the Lake Mead Marina at 6 p.m., proceeding along Boulder Beach to Hemenway Harbor before returning to the marina. The National Park Service will waive entrance fees into LMNRA beginning at 2 p.m. for the parade. If extreme weather conditions force cancellation of the parade, entrants will be judged dockside at the Lake Mead Marina.

There is a special holiday link with snowcapped mountains, a unique aroma of pine from a tree, bells jingling from a sleigh as it glides over snow and the delightful tales told of a jolly man dressed in red, who hangs out with wildlife.

Whatever your reason for the season, discover nature's beauty. Happy Holidays!

Outdoor briefs

Until next week -- enjoy the Great Outdoors.11This Saturday, the glitter of magnificent holiday lights will send a warm glow of holiday spirit to the water's edge of Lake Mead where spectators will gather to view the 26th Annual Parade of Lights sponsored by the Lake Mead Boat Owners Association.