Our town does a cute Charles Dickens themed holiday festival that lasts two days. There are "living windows" where businesses in the downtown area have people acting out different holiday activities/themes, a tree lighting, Santa, free hot chocolate, cookies, and treats, a reading of "A Christmas Carol", a parade, a petting zoo, crafts, a living nativity, a festival of trees decorated by various children's organizations, and I'm sure I'm forgetting a few other things. It's a lot of fun, and we really did it up this year.
First up on Friday night was the living windows. The kids had an early time slot, so this was the first things they did. This was through their school, and the theme this year was "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." They acted out the main points of the movie; first, they decorated the tree...
Then the residents of Whoville sang a danced.
The kids were instructed to wear their pajamas, and their Christmas pjs from last year were in the best shape for public wearing. Unfortunately, they are now much too short. I have one pair for this year cut out, but none are made yet.
Then the residents of Whoville went to sleep. I think Dorothy giggled the entire time she was supposed to be sleeping.
While they slept, the Grinch came and took away all of their decorations. Malcolm got to play the Grinch because he was the tallest one in his group. He was not amused, and somewhat embarrassed to be featured.
The final bow, after the Grinch's heart grew three sizes.
It was super cute and a bit more elaborate than what they have done in previous years.
We walked around and the other windows were really cute too, with most of the major holiday movies represented, and a few non-movie themes.
From there, it was time to head into the village hall to warm up, eat snacks, have hot chocolate, and see Santa!
Dorothy was eager to have her picture taken with Santa, but apprehensive about telling him what she wants for Christmas because she can't seem to nail down a solid list. She's fickle and likes just about everything, so I think they settled on "a fun surprise."
They didn't want to take a picture together, but come on, how cute are they in their coordinated pjs?
Malcolm always has lots to say to Santa. At least this year he didn't ask for a very specific Lego set that has never, ever, been sold. I think all of his requests are actual items that can be purchased, and not things he has made up on his own.
After Santa, it was time to head home, but not before taking a picture with a friend in front of the town tree.
The next morning, we were back, and ready to march in the parade with the vets of Dundee Animal Hospital. The kids threw candy, Kevin carried the banner, and Rory and I walked. We weren't sure how the puppy would do, but he loved every minute of it. I had visions of him either laying down in the middle of the parade, and refusing to move, or that he wasn't going to be able to handle the excitement and I'd have to take him home early.
I really could not be more pleased with his behavior. He was excited to meet other dogs, loved all the people, and was pretty easy to keep off of the candy dropped in the street along the parade route. He walked along like he knew what he was doing instead of trying to wander off. We are already looking forward to having him participate again.
Ready to step off. Malcolm and Dorothy decided to take opposite sides of the street for candy duty. That was probably for the best.
Rory got so much love. We didn't stop for pets until at the very end, where the crows had thinned out.
Poor Dorothy was
freezing. After the parade, we put her in the wagon with Ellie. She didn't even want to stay at the park and do crafts or drink hot cider. Kevin took her home and she warmed up there.
Rory, Malcolm, Ellie, Dr. Anne, and I stayed at the park and played for a bit. Malcolm spent a long time in the craft tent, but Rory and I didn't go in. It was best for us to be outside.
There was a little petting zoo with goats and sheep that Rory
loved. I wouldn't let him get closer than he is in the photo above, but I think he was very interested in herding the animals. The people running we laughing at their animals reaction to him. We were over on the side, and several of the sheep came right up to where Rory was, very interested in him. As we walked around, they followed him. I think that if he ever had the opportunity to herd livestock, he would love it. He enjoys his big ball at home, but it just isn't the same as a herd of live animals.
We are all exhausted, but had a wonderful time. I'm glad that Rory was done with his vaccinations in time to be able to come along with us. It was a great experience for him, as well as the kids. It was good for me too. I talked to a lot more people than I would have without the dog. I met a nice couple who told me all about their Cardigan Corgi they had had, who lived to be 18 years old (very old, for that breed). The man even asked if he could take a picture of Rory, they were so happy to see him.
