Trip to the Gaylord Texan

We ventured over to Grapevine, Texas for a weekend of winter fun.  First stop was the Ice exhibit.  It was a chilly 9 degrees inside, but they provided warm coats and we came prepared with hats and gloves.  

 Maisey's jacket was a little too short which prevented her from gliding down the slide of ice.

There was a really beautiful nativity made entirely of ice at the end of the exhibit.  Unfortunately, we didn't get to admire it for long because Gardner was sobbing about how cold he was.  Poor baby would never survive a Chicago winter!

After exiting the Ice displays, we warmed up with some hot chocolate (which no one would drink) and cupcakes and paid a visit to Frosty the Snowman.

Then we headed over to see Mrs. Claus and she read the story of Frosty the Snowman while the kids enjoyed some cookies and milk. 

 Next up was the snowtubing.  Unfortunately, the lines had grown longer throughout the day.  We were allowed 12 snowtubing runs, but only did 3 because the kids (and adults) were getting worn out.

 Grandma and Gardner

 Maisey and Papa

 Our next activity was gingerbread man decorating.

And a visit to Gingy.

The next day, we hopped on board the North Pole Express in Grapevine, TX.  It was a nice train ride followed by a short program and a picture with Santa.

The girls and Mrs. Claus

Gardner and the conductor.

We all received some "frosty chocolate milk" in a souvenir cup.

 One last photo with Santa for the year.