Visit to the North Pole

As we count down the days till Christmas, we make an effort to incorporate seasonal family activities into our daily schedule. Most days we actually get to do them and other days life (or sick children, rain, work, etc.) gets in the way. The kids love to do something new every day and it makes us appreciate advent much more if we participate in seasonal, festive activities. This weekend will be packed with fun holiday things.

Today, we visited Santa, his elves and reindeers at the North Pole and then played in the snow at an Ice Palace. It was so much fun and the kids' eyes were glistening the entire time. It was Elliot's first time meeting Santa and I must say he did great (I did a practice run yesterday at our local mall and let's just say it didn't went well at all). I dressed the kids up in their Christmas outfits and took them to our local Bass Pro Shop (outdoor and recreation store), where they set up a Christmas Wonderland. Compared to our mall, the scenery was so much nicer at Bass Pro Shop and they allow you to bring your own camera in addition to giving you a free photograph. They also have free arts and crafts, moving trains, a pretend fireplace, some games, delicious seasonal snacks (for purchase) and a Santa Mailbox.

 Sitting on Santa's lap: Elliot was wondering who that guy with the white beard is but he didn't cry.

Me and my little ones in front of the Christmas tree. Even though it is unseasonal warm here in South Florida, seeing all the Christmas decorations makes one definitely get in to the spirit.

And since we were already next to the Dolphin Mall, we went ahead and visited the Frozen Ice Palace there. I was worried that it would be crowded on a Friday afternoon, but luckily it wasn't at all.
The Ice Palace is an interactive holiday display with falling snow, a light show and featuring the art of the characters from the movie Frozen.

And then Amelia and Elliot played in the snow. In the beginning Elliot wasn't too sure about the white fluffy stuff but quickly got used to it and in the end he didn't want to leave.

We even took a picture with Olaf on the ice throne. And yes, that is my daughter with a shoe off and being grumpy since I told her we had to leave. This is real life!

We all had a blast today and for sure it is a day to remember. Let's hope the kids will be good and Santa will visit our house for Christmas. Now it is time to clean our boots and then go to bed as St. Nikolaus will visit tonight.