Happy Friday! I wanted to share a couple of things our family did last week in St. Louis in case you’re looking for some fun this month.

Up first, we started going to St. Charles Christmas Traditions last year on Black Friday. Brandon and I both have that day off always, and so it just works well for us to kick off the Christmas season there. The Characters are so fun and never seem to break character. The girls like to go around “collecting cards” which tells each Characters story.

There are stores as well and great resturants. Our favorite vintage soda shop, Sugar Bot has some delicious hot chocolate. Homeade Marshmellows and Whip as well;)

You can vote for your favorite gingerbread houses at the church on Main St. It’s just fun.

When we left St. Charles, we headed down the road a bit to Wild Lights. We had talked about this for years, but just never had time to check it out. We got it on our calendar early this year, bought the tickets and bundled up…

There were snow machines, and smore’s stations…

There were lots of lights! We all said we’d probably do it again.

Now all of that is fun when your in the city, but if you live in Murphysboro you know we love our Murphysboro Hometown Christmas festivities. Think Hallmark. It is magical. I am new on the Board this year, and while I always knew how much work the Board puts in, I have a whole new level of respect for all of them now. It is so much fun as well though, and nothing would make the Board happier than having a great turn out tonight at Carl Lee Park for the tree lighting. There will be free activities for kids, performances by MHS Chorus and Band, food vendors selling dinner, carriage rides and possibly even the big guy himself will be arriving;)

So if you don’t have plans tonight, come and join us!

Tis’ the season friends!

I’m off to help get that carriage route decorated:)