It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

What a weekend! We had so much fun getting in the holiday spirit!

Thursday morning I took a long walk with some of my new neighborhood friends, and Marshall cozied up in the Ergo. It was FINALLY chilly enough for a little hat. 

And later that night we checked out a local holiday festival. Marshall was mesmerized by the lights. (I know he looks terrified, but I'm going with mesmerized.)

The whole event was adorable! They shut down several streets for a small parade, and local groups came out to perform (dancers, carolers, bands, etc.). Plus all the local shops stayed open late and provide free snacks or drinks!

Friday was a fun family outing to meet Santa! We headed up to The Grove and walked around for a bit.

 I wandered around Barnes & Noble while Terry took a work call, and I decided I just want all the cookbooks.

We grabbed lunch at the famous farmer's market and finished with ice cream--pumpkin and salted caramel. YUM.

Then it was time for Santa! Marshall was soooooo sleepy, but thankfully he held out for the big moment and then burst into tears when the helper elf lady tried to talk to him.

On Saturday we got our tree! And Terry carried the damn thing up three flights of stairs. He must have an awesome trainer who helps him keep in great shape. (False, he's just a macho stud.)

Saturday night we got to work in the kitchen and made this hot chocolate with some whipped cream. We also made some homemade marshmallows! We've been wanting to try it for a while, and it turned out to be relatively easy. They are the perfect texture!

Today Marshall let us sleep in until 8:30, and then we got to see our friends for a few hours before they headed out for a date night nearby. All in all, a great weekend getting ready for Christmas!