Santa's Mall

We have found so many fun things to do around town, and that is especially true this Holiday season. One REALLY neat thing we found was Santa's Mall. This was at the old historic carousel down town Leavenworth. It is all set up by the staff and LOTS of volunteers for children to shop for their loved ones. They have their list, are assigned an "elf" to help them out, and they wrap their gifts so they are ready to go under the tree. There are also many other activities going on, craftes, snacks. and best of all (according to Cole) the children get a free carousel ride after they finish their shopping. This was a great morning for all of us!

Kate and Cole holding their list waiting to start shopping.

Finished shopping! Here are all their purchases ready to go under the tree.

Kate shopped for Daddy, Mommy and Cole, and Cole shopped for Daddy, Mommy and Kate!

Now it is time for the carousel ride!

Cole prefers the seats...Not sure why.

Kate chose a white horse.

Now it is craft time...

Kate made a beautiful wreath.

Cole in his cool hat.

Now it is time for some yummy hot chocolate and cupcakes!

After we got home the presents went under the Christmas tree.

This was such a fun event, we are already looking forward to participating again next year! I really can't wait to see what Kate and Cole chose for all of us. Kate keeps telling me I am going to LOVE it.

Ice Skating

For months Kate has been talking about wanting to go ice skating. So, a couple weekends ago we decided to check out the outdoor rink set up in Kansas City for the season. Oliver had been skating a handful of times, I had been one time when in middle school, and Kate and Cole had never been before. But we were ready for an adventure. All in all it was a great time. Cole stepped out onto the ice and stepped right off. I guess he's not ready. Kate on the other hand stepped onto the ice and didn't want to come off. She stayed near the wall most of the time, but was determined to get better. We stayed for almost 2 hours and I am sure she would have kept going. The only break she took was the mandatory break for the Zamboni. Oliver did well, only one fall, and I actually surprised myself by keeping off the wall most of the time. We had a nice lunch with friends after the skating, checked out the Crown Center's decorations and had a great day.

Kate and Cole after getting their skates on. "Let's GO!" Kate looks like a natural.
It appears Cole is ready to go...

She is off the wall! Yay!I think this was Cole's favorite part. The Zamboni!Kate and Mommy. I really love this photo of us.The giant Crown Center countdown clock.A yummy lunch at Fritz'sHere comes our food. Dropped off by a train then lowered down to us.

Checking out the huge gingerbread village.

I really love all the great activities we have had the opportunity to enjoy since being in Kansas. We really are creating some wonderful memories. And, hopefully starting some wonderful traditions.