Some holiday lights just keep on glowing

Travis Johnson and his family know Christmas is over and that Thursday was the first day of February.

But last night, amid another snowstorm in Cheesman Park, it was obvious the Johnsons have not lost their holiday spirit. Their house has illuminated the quiet neighborhood with Christmas lights since Dec. 1.

Two reindeer are adorned with white lights as one mechanically bobs its head. Miniature Christmas and decorative trees line the lawn and either side of the house’s entranceway with red and white lights shining brightly.

The Johnsons aren’t so much carrying their holiday spirit over into February as they have been affected by the relentless snowfall, which has meant that their Christmas lights will remain lit.

Johnson said he had planned to remove the lights by the start of the National Western Stock Show.

“The extension cords are on the ground, and the snow is on the ground, and they’re frozen and covered,” Johnson, 35, said, explaining why he hasn’t been able to remove his lights.

“It’s just inconvenient.”

Johnson said he will get around to it next week - weather permitting.

“It’s not enjoyable being out and taking them out when it’s cold and snowing,” he said.

For other residents in Cheesman Park and the Country Club neighborhoods who are still lighting up their neighborhoods with festive lights, the reason is simple: They haven’t gotten around to removing them, they said.

But some homeowners just like the lights.

“We keep them on until early February,” Chris Citron said. “It gives us some brightness and color at a very dark time, and I enjoy them. We just like keeping them on for a while.”