February Christmas

My side of the family does not do Christmas on Christmas day. We haven't for years. It's just easier that way because of so many varying schedules. This year our family Christmas was the first weekend of February. 

We started with Casey's pizza. I know that may sound disgusting, but we are blessed with a talented crew at our local Casey's and we always enjoy the pizza we get from there. (And who can beat the fact that its one block away?)

The weekend was filled with the children playing, lots of yummy food, watercolor and cricut crafts, books read aloud, conversation, games, and coffee. We held the get-together at Allen's shop, just three blocks from home. Because of this, we went home each night. This helped our children sleep better (as well as us).

We wrapped up our weekend with a trip to the zoo. It was such fun seeing the children's reactions to the animals. The weather was delightfully warm. 

The day ended at the Midtown Global Market. If any of you are looking for something interesting to do in Minneapolis, this is it. It is filled with shops run by people from all over the world and it is such a treat for all the senses. If you feel a little tight on traveling funds, then maybe a trip here would help fill your need for travel. 

I enjoyed chicken tikka with rice and a chai bubble tea. Allen tried a gyro salad. The gentleman running the Indian shop gave us free samples of hot chai because it was the end of the day and he didn't want to throw it out. 

The lady at the art shop told me a little bit of how her art inspired the opening of the business. She had been homeless at the time. 

At the shop selling souvenirs from around the world, Liz, N and I played musical instruments with the man running the shop. He was from India and he shared with us that he is a Christian. As N and I played the drum, I thought "This is what memories are made of". 

The weekend was busy and full, but also encouraging and fun. I am so thankful for our family!