Tis the season...

Tonight, we went on our first Christmas-themed family outing. Thanks to Aracely at Daytripping Mom, I won a family pack of tickets to the Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train. Having never been there, we weren't sure what to expect but it did not disappoint. The train station and area around it was completely decorated and included cookie decorating, a bounce house, and story time with Mrs. Claus. It was REALLY crowded so we ate a quick dinner so we could get in a very long line to wait for the train to take us to "Santa's Village". If I was at all worried that an outing like this would take away from the real reason we celebrate Christmas Kate took care of that: while we sat at eating at the picnic benches, she loudly exclaimed, "Mommy! At Christmas we celebrate Jesus' birthday. Jesus is God's Son!" So proud! ;) After waiting almost a hour, therefore, putting us way past bedtimes we boarded the little train. It was beautifully decorated with lights and trim, as were all of the trees along the tracks. We arrived at an outdoor amphitheater where Santa was set up on the stage. Kate was so excited to meet him and did such a great job being patient while we waited in another long line.

Unlike the last two years Kate went right up and sat on Santa's lap.

Luke, however, was not interested in getting much closer than this...

...that is, until the candy canes came out.

It was a nice time with the family and a fun way to kick off the season of festivities!