Jennifer Drake has always helped her dad set up decorations all over the yard of the family's Lake Ridge, Virginia, home -- but this year, someone stole some of the fun from their display of flashing lights and festivity.
The family's been decorating the yard for the past 12 years, with dozens of inflatable decorations all over the yard. Each year, they've has added more and more.
"Over the years, people have always stopped and said how much they enjoy seeing the decorations, what kind of joy it brings them [and] brings them into the Christmas spirit," Drake said.
Prince William County Police say last weekend, someone snatched five inflatables from the yard.
"With this time of year with the spirit of giving, somebody is taking," said Officer Nathaniel Probust.
The family awoke last Sunday and realized the five inflatables were missing, including a Santa, a snowman decked out in cowboy gear, and a penguin countdown clock.
"It's heartless," said neighbor Juanita Abdo.
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Drake says she isn't interested in pressing charges, but does have a message for the thief about the missing items: "Bring them back so that everybody that enjoys them can continue to enjoy them."
She says their Christmas display started with her dad wanting to do something for the grandkids. But over the years, the yard has become somewhat of an icon for the neighborhood at this time of year. Lots of people drive by to get a glimpse at the family's display.
"I see every year; it's very nice," neighbor Solomon Wrikneh said.
Like Drake, neighbors just want to see the decorations returned.
"They don't belong to you," Abdo said. "Bring them back."
