We travelled up to the top of the mountain on the Swiss cable car. As we were loading in the car, Craig and I realized that we weren't sure if the kids were scared of heights. We figured we'd find out right then. They enjoyed the trip up the mountain. Once we reached the top, the wind was so brisk and so cold. We got out to the edge, getting ready to take a picture when Xander realized then he needed to go potty. So, we made our way back to the building on the top and then made a second attempt at the family picture. Success. A great view from the mountaintop, but not one we wanted to relish when it was so cold. BRRRRRRRRR.
We then travelled to the Antebellum plantation and barnyard. The kids enjoyed getting to pet all the animals such as the sheep and goats. We got to speak to the worker in the barnyard and Kalyn said, "He's just like the shepherds when Jesus was born." Then we went inside the plantation house where the kids made their own decorative stars. Each room in the house was decorated for Christmas and included a plaque describing how each room was used. Very interesting.
Then we met up with the Thompsons and Worthingtons. We have all been friends since college. Frances, Brooke and I all transferred to Auburn at the same time and we really bonded. It is amazing to see how our friendships have stood such a test of time and distance. We were really looking forward to this time with them. The weather was forested to be bad and very cold, but since we had already purchased tickets online, we had to go. It turned out that we chose a perfect day. Apparently the bad weather had scared people away so it was very empty. Our friends kept turning to each other in disbelief of how empty it was!
Our whole group
All the kids in front of the amazing huge Christmas tree
The package we bought with our tickets included free unlimited hot chocolate. That came in VERY handy!!!
Adults and kids alike had a blast in the Big Red Barn. This three story building was a great place to run around, climb rope ladders and beam one another with foam balls. It began as a place to warm up a bit, but pretty soon we were taking off our coats because we were so hot. A great start.
We enjoyed a number of wonderful shows. They were very entertaining!! Our group often took up at least two rows. Our kids (all of them) were even chosen to be a part of one of the shows. It was fun to see them up there shaking their music makers and dancing with the songs. Trinity was selected to decorate the snowman in one show. What a privilege.
Once the sun went down, we got on the train for "The Gift". Throughout the ride, we got to see lots of Christmas lights and then it came. We stopped about half-way around the mountain base for a "visit" with an old-time cowboy. He told the true Christmas story - the birth of Jesus. It was amazing. That was the best thing about this whole day. Each event shared the Truth about Christmas without hesitation or apology. After being inundated with hiding the true meaning of Christmas the week prior, it was such a welcomed change.
The whole village was covered in lights. Trees were covered so tightly that you could barely see the bark. Buildings were lined in lights. It was just beautiful. The night ended with a trip from the Snow Angel Fireworks and Snowfall Celebration Finale. We had a great spot where the snow angel "flew" right over us. As the snow angel flew away, the amazing fireworks went off. It was a great ending.
Mistletoe!!
Three worn out munchins as we headed home!
It was an amazing day, filled with a great time with friends and our family. We are already looking forward to next year.
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