A few years back, I penned a rather polarizing piece regarding my aversion to inflatable lawn ornaments. I didn’t hold back, stating, “Your motorized waving reindeer looks like a symbol of despair.” While I meant it humorously, there’s a kernel of truth in comedy. I find those air-filled figures quite tacky, and labeling them as a lazy decorating choice was an insensitive comment that I regret.
Surprisingly, many readers focused more on my jabs at beloved Disney characters than on the ableist nature of my remarks. The feedback was diverse: some agreed with my assessment of these decorations, while others did not. I received comments that ranged from supportive to outright critical:
- “You’re just being a judgmental jerk! Let people enjoy what they like.”
- “Wow, what happened to you to make you so bitter? You must be a blast at holiday gatherings!” (I had to correct the pronouns used here, as the commenter misgendered me.)
- “Quit being so uptight and lighten up!” (Refer to my earlier article on humor.)
- “I usually dislike inflatables, but your negativity made me want to buy one!” (Is that reverse psychology at play?)
Firstly, I assure you, I am a great time at parties! I still stand by the majority of my earlier sentiments, preferring strings of lights and a touch more creativity in holiday decor. I don’t see the need for a 4th of July inflatable lawn ornament. The mass production of these items also feels like an embodiment of excessive consumerism. However, I’m slowly coming to terms with the fact that holiday inflatables aren’t entirely without charm.
Perhaps I’m softening or becoming less stubborn. Maybe I’m letting go of my rigid ideas about classic holiday aesthetics that evoke nostalgia for a simpler time, like something out of A Christmas Story. The modern trends of laser light shows and balloon characters in yards were never my favorites. Still, the pandemic has shifted my perspective. I’ve learned to appreciate the joy that such decorations can bring, even if they do seem silly.
Last March, when people hung twinkling lights outdoors to lift spirits during dark times, the joy was fleeting as the pandemic stretched on. I eventually took down those lights when they became reminders of societal divisions. But come October, the inflatable ghosts, pumpkins, and other festive decorations made their debut. I unexpectedly felt excitement seeing them, as they signified that people still wanted to celebrate and spread cheer—even in the form of oversized, air-filled vampires and ghosts.
My children have always enjoyed these quirky decorations, and their delight was evident as they requested to drive by particularly extravagant displays. It was then that I realized my heart was growing a bit softer, and I began to see some beauty in these otherwise gaudy pieces.
While I’d like to say I’ve become more accepting of your holiday yard choices, I’m not quite there yet. Did you think I would undergo a complete transformation? You can do you, but I can’t help but question the motivations behind certain character choices. Unless it’s “Baby’s First Christmas,” why is Winnie the Pooh in a Santa hat in your yard? Really? And don’t get me started on the “patriotic” Christmas Eagle—clearly indicative of a specific political stance.
Religious displays can also feel over-the-top and might come off as more about showing off than practicing the true spirit of the season. While I understand the desire to “keep Christ in Christmas,” I believe in wishing you a Happy Holidays instead.
I digress; this was meant to be about my disdain for inflatables and not a commentary on religion, though the two often intertwine. You don’t need my blessing or anyone else’s to embrace what brings you joy—even if it’s something I might scoff at. As long as our opinions don’t hinder anyone’s dignity or rights, we’re entitled to them. It may seem simple to throw a Santa hat on Baby Yoda, inflate it, and call it festive, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy some of it.
Hallelujah. Holy moly. Where’s the Tylenol?
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In summary, my initial disdain for inflatable yard decorations has softened over time. While I still prefer more classic decorating styles, the joy these decorations can bring—especially during challenging times—has made me reconsider my stance. You can decorate however you like, and while I might still raise an eyebrow at certain choices, I’m learning to appreciate the fun in these festive displays.
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