Luminaria

Let Christmas begin!! That is seriously how I felt after we cleaned up all the Thanksgiving meal. This is my most favorite time of the year! I love how the world seems just a little kinder and a little more magical. We started the magic with a whimsical walk through the enchanting gardens at Thanksgiving Point. We experienced the Luminaria event for its inaugural launch last year and just had to repeat it this year. I was glad that Mom and Dad were here to experience it again with us (as well as my niece, Kaia). It is simply breathtaking! I get giddy as my senses are assaulted with smells, sounds, and sights of the season.

This year they added a few things - one of which was a Gingerbread display in what is usually their greenhouse. The gingerbread houses were amazing! I loved the scents, but the actual structures were quite impressive.

Finally, we entered a magical world of twinkling lights. We wound our way through Candy Cane Lane, Peppermint Forest, Reindeer World (where Santa's actual Reindeer, Blitzen and Dasher, were!), and so much more. I loved watching Jonas take it all in. He was running everywhere! He would shout out the different colors all while laughing and dashing through the crowds. He was fascinated by the reindeer. I love that he's finally old enough to truly appreciate the magic of the Christmas traditions.

While all of the displays are wonderful, my favorite is still the Light of the World garden with all the statues of Christ. He is truly the reason for the season. The soft lantern lights coupled with the reverent Christmas hymns create a peaceful experience as you walk through the garden. Christ is truly the greatest gift we have ever received. He is why we celebrate Christmas. He is the reason for hope and peace. He is my Savior, my brother, my friend.

Before we left, we stopped at an area set up with games to play and hot chocolate to purchase. Luminaria is the perfect way to usher in the Christmas season...and it's even better when you can share it with family. Bring on Christmas!