Holidazzle 2011

We continued our tradition this year of heading "into the city" to take in the parade of lights, most commonly known to the general public as the Holidazzle, but lovingly referred to in our home as the Frizzle Frazzle and/or Razzle Dazzle.  We had to persevere this year for our annual trek as it took three attempts to finally make our plans come to fruition (a well-timed bout of snow and some other odds and ends prevented our first two attempts).  But as they say, the third time's a charm, and even though it was down right frigid the day of our planned outing, we vowed to make good on our promise, and along with our dear friends, the Berge's, we bundled up and ventured out.  Because of the arctic blast that was upon us, we first attempted to find a viewing spot in one of the skyways above the parade route.  But alas, these prime spots were already claimed.  So, with smiles on our faces (some more willing than others), we headed out into the great outdoors and staked our claim on a nice piece of curb. 

While waiting for the festivities to begin, Michael volunteered to head back into the Gavidae shopping area that was positioned behind us to hit up Caribou for some toasty hot chocolate.  While doing so, he noticed that one of the stores right near the coffee shop was closing up for the evening.  It was a floral shop that had quite a few flowers and plants on display carts out in the common area.  As Michael observed them roll their carts into the store for overnight safe-keeping, a lovely bank of windows was revealed that directly faced the parade route.  Realizing his good fortune, he quickly got word to our crew and we moved our way inside just before the parade passed by.  It was FANTASTIC!!!

After the parade ended, we wandered around the surrounding buildings and skyways, enjoying all of the fun Christmas decor.  T turned into our photographer at this point in the evening and took some fun shots.

It was definitely an evening that was well-worth the wait -

for kids and adults alike!