the lights all aglow

For years I have wanted to visit the Botanical Gardens all lit up for the holidays.
So this year I included it in our advent activities and we finally made it happen.
I thought we were going to be freezing, but it turned out to be tolerable that evening.
We still loved warming up next to the warm fires burning all around.
And with yummy hot cocoa and cider.
As we cuddled together next to the fire, listening to the carolers sing about the Christ child against the backdrop of the twinkling lights, we were definitely feeling the spirit of Christmas.
Love it.
And love this crazy bunch.
♡



He was kind of a scrawny little reindeer.
We decided he must be Blitzen.


Too much broccoli for dinner tonight. :)

The lighting is impossible to figure out!
I'm sure someone could take some really amazing pictures here.
Just not me.



Austin was adorable talking with Santa.
(That's just between you and me...because adorable is not a word he would be ok with.)