Giving Machines, Mile High Tree and Parade of Lights

We visited the Giving Machines in Denver this year. It was the first year Denver had the Giving Machines. The kids were excited to pick an item out. It was maybe a little anticlimactic when they watched the item drop and stay in the vending/giving machine. I probably should have done a little more prepping of what to expect. However, it was still a good experience and reminder to our whole family what the spirit of Christmas needs to be about.

After the giving machines, we checked out the 16th street mall which can be a quick lesson on "why we don't do drugs"--- Yikes. Ha! There was also a fun, but very busy (!) Chirstkindyl Market. We thought of The Cramers in Europe as we made our through the market and checked out the booths. We ordered a delicious salted pretzel that we split as a family.

We stumbled on the "Mile High Tree" as we wandered around Denver. It was WAY cool! It wasn't crowded so we were able to hang out in the tree for several songs and "oooh & ahhhh" over the changing light display.

We made our way back to the Parade of Lights' route. This was our first year attending the parade. It was a warm night (for December) and the kids loved the various floats. We were trying to meet up with friends, but they ended up turning around because traffic was so bad! I guess if we do go back next year, we'll plan to head in early again.

It really was a fun day with the family and felt like we truly kicked off the Christmas season on the right foot.