Lights and More Lights

Over the last several weeks, our children have grown understandably obsessed with Christmas lights. Gabe, especially, can think of nothing better to do once the sun goes down than look at, point to, and name the colors of Christmas lights wherever they can be found. And like any parents who want to foster the magical feelings in their children during the holiday season, we've been indulging them. So far, in addition to our nightly viewings from the driveway and Ariana's bedroom window, we have visited the Fountain Hills 'Stroll in the Glow', the Mesa Temple lights (with the Edwards fam), and Zoolights (with the Buggy-Schultz fam). Each experience has been fun, not only for the kids, but for us too. Nothing beats an evening walking around in the crisp, perfect weather, surrounded by beautiful colored lights. Oh, and three happy, whine-free kids? That doesn't hurt one bit either.

At Fountain Hills 'Stroll in the Glow', they blocked off the Avenue of the Fountains and lit up the whole street with lights. All the retail shops were opened and many gave away free hot chocolate and cookies. It was such a charming old town feeling. Gabe and Ari got to pet the goats and sheep in the manger and Gabe even got to get up close and personal with a real fire truck. The lights at the Mesa Temple were, by far, the best. There were just so many lights -- everything was lit up. Jake was so overcome with the beauty of it all that he wouldn't stop taking pictures the whole time. Thanks Chrissy, Mike, and Lana for coming with us!
Zoolights is definitely a holiday tradition with Jake and I. We definitely aren't the only ones who feel this way, judging by the crowds. It was a beautiful night to get out, and we're always looking for an excuse to get together with Erin, Ryan, and Ella. Those lights get more amazing every year.