Its Friday which means its time for my top five favorites from the week, and I’m linking up with Erika to bring those to you.
first favorite:
The Christmas Opera
Because last week’s favorites were all about a certain 6-year-old named James Colin, I wasn’t able to bring this to you last Friday so I’m sharing it with you now. A week ago, I attended a Christmas opera called Becoming Santa Claus at the Winspear Opera House in Downtown Dallas with my sweet friend, Laura. Although I LOVE opera, it was my first time stepping foot in the Dallas Opera House, and I can tell you it did not disappoint. The formal, contemporary architecture is stunning.
The story itself is about a young Prince Claus, a thirteen year old royal, who discovers his three uncles will be unable to attend his birthday celebration because they have noticed a bright star in the sky; a star which they believe will lead them to a holy baby destined to change the world.
In the midst of his pouting, Claus recognizes that the gifts his uncles are taking the baby are unsuitable/un-fun so he recruits his subjects (which happen to be elves) to help him build toys to take to the baby instead. Although the family and new baby have left the stable and moved on by the time Claus and the elves arrive with the gifts, he finds his heart much changed and wishes to take the gifts to other children who may otherwise have nothing.
What a refreshing take on bringing the two most celebrated Christmas stories: Jesus and Santa, into one story that includes both traditions!
If you have a chance to attend a show at the Winspear Opera House this season, I highly recommend it.
The chandelier is insane.
second favorite:
Please let me know if I can help you with your Christmas Shopping!
third favorite:
I posted this recipe earlier in the week and I’ve received a lot of feedback from you about it. This should definitely be one you make this Christmas. It is simple, decadent and a hit with kids and adults alike!
fourth favorite:
Carriage Ride in HP to see the lights
On Thursday Brian came home early and we headed to Dallas with the kids for some shopping, dinner and carriage ride through Highland Park to see the Christmas lights.
I think we have found a new tradition! It was so much fun and absolutely beautiful.
Both boys fell asleep as soon as we got in the car…at 3:45 PM.
We had dinner on Knox Street before the carriage ride.
And then set off to see the lights.
And then set out to see the lights.
None of the pictures turned out very well because it was so dark, but I will tell you our driver told us that it cost the owner’s of the house $15,000 to have that tree wrapped in lights. WHAT!!!???
How she knows this I have no idea, but it makes for a good story. She said it took them 3 days and they had to bring in a cherry picker in order to reach the top. Every single branch is wrapped.
Craziness!
fifth favorite:
If you missed my post yesterday about the family Christmas party I hosted, I hope you will take a look. 😉
Happy Weekend!
That opera sounds super interesting! Love the intertwining of the 2 Christmas stories. Thanks for sharing and have a great weekend!
Thank you, Cat! Merry Christmas to you as well! 🙂 -LP
Love this family set of fun!! Maybe we should take the kids to see the lights some year?!!