We are now in full Christmas swing and we've had a very eventful last few days celebrating the holiday season. First and foremost, I draw everyone's attention to our first Christmas miracle -- Simone's Santa pictures actually turned out well this year!!! It only took us eight years to get her to look at the camera and smile, but we finally did it.
Perhaps it had something to do with the re-vamped Santa setup at Tysons Corner -- it's quite the ordeal now. Gone are the days of simply sitting on Santa's lap and reciting your wish list. Technology has arrived! First, we avoided long lines by reserving an appointment time online, and spent 30 minutes of fun going through the Santa experience.
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| First the Naughty or Nice O'Meter |
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| Then building an elf video featuring Simone. |
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| A pose with Daddy. |
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| Some Elf-ray vision activities. |
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And finally balloons and face painting.
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Our second event was Simone's holiday piano recital. She played "Oh Come All Ye Faithful" without a single mistake -- so proud!
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| She went into super shy mode as she introduced herself and her song. |
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| Much more relaxed after the performance. |
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| With the proud parents. |
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And with her proud teacher.
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Next up -- some evening excitement in Middleburg, where we caught the tail end of the holiday parade and then relaxed the evening away at cozy resort.
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| These horses were amazing. They "danced" to music as they paraded along. |
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| Simone took this shot of a gingerbread creation. |
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| Instant relaxation! I LOVE THE HOLIDAYS!! |
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| Outside sitting at one of the fire pits that dot the beautiful grounds. |
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| Lots of warm cozy fires to snuggle up next to both outside and inside -- so festive! |
And finally -- a quick peek at two other toasty and tasty outings ...
Our second annual holiday tea at Oatlands Plantation.
And an evening at a local German Christmas Market.
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| Brats and split pea soup --Yum! |
Amidst all of the holiday chores, these are the kinds of things that make the holidays worth it! Can't wait to see what other fun we can find this month.
