ZooLights 2008

While we are missing the lack of commercialism enjoyed in Central Asia this time of year, and the fire department's Santa visits in Torrance, we're finding much to enjoy this Christmas season here in the Phoenix area. We recently made use of our zoo pass to take in the annual ZooLights celebration at the Phoenix Zoo. While not quite as impressive as we'd hoped, Jenga, the life-size talking giraffe (lower left in the photo), was pretty amazing. They also had a light show with music that was pretty cool, and Chloe, who prides herself on being Daddy's "tiger", was very happy to find some tiger cubs in lights. The Gilbert city hall had their own celebration a few nights ago with live music, lots of festive lights, and a large tree that was lit up (of course, the biggest hit for the girls were the free glow sticks!). Perhaps our favorite so far, though, was the Luminaria held at the lake by the regional library. The entire lake was surrounded by 1,000+ luminaries (small bags with candles inside). Lots of live music to add to the festivities (our favorite was the guy playing "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes). The festivities will continue this weekend with Elise & Chloe dancing in their respective ballet shows. We'll be sure to post an update on that along with a photo. Stay tuned...