... Christmas is upon us ...

Tonight starts the big "Christmas Vacation" for the Ortega family.  Well, I must be honest, the vacation starts tonight for the Ortega adults.  Tomorrow is slated to be our day of alone time, to include a romantic lunch (if the weather cooperates) and any last minute gift shopping while the kids enjoy one more day of daycare.

The festivities started off with a beautiful foggy night at Storybook Island.  Certainly a South Dakota tradition for the few years we hang our hats here!

The fog was unforgiving in the town we live in, however once we got down into Rapid we were thankful that we hadn't called it a night!  With days offering us temperatures well into the negatives, tonight the 28 degrees was comfortable.  We bundled the kiddos in 3 layers, donned the winter outwear, and headed for the lights!

Each display was sponsored by a local business, and each one was decorated fantastically!  We had a great time.  The lights were beautiful.  The crowd was minimal.  Both the kids behaved so well, they were in awe of the displays at every turn.

... and then, for the first time ever, both of the children sat with Santa.  Even if just for a split second!

'Til next year... thank you for the Christmas cheer Storybook Island!  You are wonderful!