Despite how busy our lives have become, my hubby and I have always made it a priority to give each of our kids some one-on-one time with either mommy or daddy - we refer to this time together as a "date". Hudson and Georgia in particular really appreciate this time alone with us, because it gives them the opportunity to be themselves...and as parents, we love the chance to focus 100% of our attention on each of them.
Once in while, I think it's ok to spoil your kids a little by giving them your undivided attention (especially when you have a big family). Which is exactly what happened when I invited Georgia to the Toronto Christmas Market at the Distillery District. I'll be completely honest, I had been looking forward to heading down and checking it out for weeks but finding the time to go on my own just wasn't possible. Instead I did a little research online (spoke with some friends) and planned the perfect morning for Georgia and me. The only thing holding us back was the weather, but thankfully the snow wasn't expected to arrive until the early afternoon. We decided to head out bright and early Sunday morning and arrived just in time for the gates to open!
I planned our morning to a tee...when doing anything with a very strong willed 3 year old, you have to be prepared! We arrived (got a great parking spot), paid for parking ($8 for 3 hours) and purchased our tickets ($6 - Georgia was free, although I think they did me a favour). Our first stop was Balzac Coffee - truly one of the nicest coffee places I've ever been in. I enjoyed a latte, a hot chocolate for Georgia and one giant ginger cookie to share. We arrived before the crowds and didn't have to wait long in line...we even managed to find a seat! After the treats were gone, it was washroom breaks, then time to bundle up and head outside. Second stop - the Carousel, at Georgia's request (tickets were $5 each). She absolutely loves riding the Carousel and always insists on choosing the pink horse!
After the ride, it was time to check out some of the vendors as well as take in some of the beautiful sights. We even had the chance to meet up with one of my close girlfriends who acted as our own personal tour guide - she's a regular at the Christmas Market. From the maze of pink Christmas trees, to the gingerbread houses and abstract structures...Georgia loved every minute! We bought Christmas ornaments and small gifts for family, enjoyed warm soup, lollipops and one of the most amazing grilled cheese sandwiches I've ever tasted - worth every dollar (it was quite expensive -ha!).
Within a couple of hours we had seen and tasted almost everything! My girlfriend even enjoyed a yummy drink at the NAUGHTY OR NICE outdoor Bar. By noon, our tummies were full, our fingers were cold and Georgia was on the verge of having a minor meltdown - time to check out! We said our goodbyes and headed home for the afternoon...singing Christmas carols the entire way.
Georgia and I loved our time at the Market and I especially loved our time together. I'm definitely looking forward to returning next year...maybe with the entire family! Here is the link to their website: http://www.torontochristmasmarket.com/
Have a wonderful Christmas! (I'm so excited just saying it!)
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