If you’re looking for some Christmas spirit, look no further than a house in Boston, Bellville.
Here nothing is done in half-measures, with scores of lights, inflatable Christmas ornaments, a nativity scene, a post box for Santa Claus, a grinch and general festive cheer.
The woman behind the lights is Hayley Gouws (or the “crazy Christmas lady” as she is known on Facebook), who recently moved from Stellenberg, where her family’s been setting up the lights since 2016.
“I am obsessed with Christmas,” Hayley admits. And even though it’s “her baby” she couldn’t do the project without the help of her husband Juan, (who is currently working in America), and two sons, Thain and Keanan.
The Gouws family tradition started 18 years ago when the family lived in Saudi Arabia. “We lived in a Western Compound and were blessed to have the amazing owners and management that allowed us substantial freedom within bounds.”
Hayley wanted to ensure her children understood the meaning and joy behind Christmas. “I worked hard on all levels to remind my boys that they still have a home in South Africa. And this is who we are.”
When they moved to back to South Africa in 2016, the tradition continued.
She’s not even sure why she does it. “My baby turns 21 next week, so it is definitely not for my “kiddies” anymore. It is rather exhausting as well.”
But she knows why. “(It’s) for all those other kiddies (and the big oldies). To bring joy, excitement and colour into their lives.”
Things are tough for many out there.
“If I can put a smile on just one little person’s face … then I have done my “job”. I do it all out of love. I find myself staring at the little ones as they walk around the displays… and it makes me happy. I am blessed. I have received some beautiful messages this past week from adults. Expressing what this means to them. And that just makes it all the more worth it.”
Priceless
Hayley says they refuse to look at the cost of everything. “It is not about the cost. It is not about how much more did I spend. It is all about the happy faces and there is no value to that.”
She’s also confined to her house from 1 to 24 December (while the lights are on display) but says it’s all worth it.
She admits to being a bit nervous about setting up a “new” house in Boston after all these years in Stellenberg. “The warmth, the excitement and appreciation from all the residents have been just amazing! I can’t thank them enough.”
The Gouws family try and ad new displays every year and have added three new inflatables, a massive Grinch on his sleigh, a seesaw and a Cindy-Lou character. “I have also added five new story boards displays.”
They also have a special metal frame Christmas tree.
“Every year when we pack up… I say, this was the last one. I am done. September comes and the plans start all over again.”
She especially enjoys the letters posted to Santa. “Santa collects them regularly, sits with us and we help him read each and everyone. In covid, December 2020, one particular letter broke my heart. “Dear Santa, I know I was not always good but all I ask is a job for my daddy”. My husband and I sat crying for two hours! The amazing effort the kiddies put into their letters makes it all worth the exhaustion.”
The house is located at 3, 14th Avenue, Boston. It’s open until 24 December (from 20:00 to 22:30). Children are encouraged to bring their letters to Santa. There’s a special post box where they can mail them. Donations in aid of rescue dogs and cats welcome. Over weekends there will be a coffee kiosk and waffles. Whatsapp Hayley on 076 973 0947 with any enquiries.
