Holiday traditions

Our family is starting some new holiday traditions since we have moved to Illinois.

Now that we live so close to the great city of Chicago, we plan to take advantage of the events that happen in the city.

The Festival of Lights is an event in Chicago that includes a holiday parade and fireworks.

We decided to ride the train into the city....Brooks, Reese and Sloane were excited to ride the train for the first time!

Waiting at the train station to ride into Chicago

 The weather was perfect for the parade!  The commentary from Brooks. Reese and Sloane was priceless...especially when we saw the big inflatable characters like Rudolf!

Watching the parade in Chicago

Riding the train

 Brooks, Reese and Sloane are now old enough to participate in "Feed My Starving Children".

Together as a family we made meals for children in other countries who do not have food.

My heart melted as I listened to the trio talk about how they were helping other children....we want to them remember how fortunate we are to have food, clothes and a nice house.  

We also discussed how these children do not have toys and bikes like we do...a valuable life lesson.

I think this will be one of our favorite tradition in the coming years.

Sloane getting ready to pack a box of meals

Our family

Brooks and Reese making meals

Of course the holiday season would not be complete without a trip to see Santa!

Brooks, Reese and Sloane did notice that this Santa looked different than the Santa in Texas!  Sadly, this was a sign that my babies are growing up!  I am hoping to hold on to Santa as long as possible!