I think what I love most about this time of year is the unexpected blessings we encounter while living our day-to-day lives.

A good example of this is the decorating of trees in the park where I walk.

I first noticed this practice last year. Seemingly random trees were decked out — although that might be too strong a word — with Christmas bulbs around the holidays.

When I began walking more regularly with my friend, I asked her about them.

“Oh,” she said, “the ladies who walk do that. They pick a tree and decorate it for the holidays.”

Well, I thought that was brilliant, so this year I set aside some bulbs just for that purpose. And while it’s true, “my” tree will never win any awards, I’d like to think it might bring some unexpected joy to those who use our lovely park.

Here are a few trees other walkers have decorated.