Twinkling Lights and a Warm Heart

✨Merry Christmas, friends!

Today, my heart is full of gratitude and joy as we celebrate this beautiful Christmas Day. Thank you to each and every one of you who continue to join me on my creative journey—your support and readership mean the world. This season reminds us of the warmth of community, the magic of lights, and the simple joy of sharing moments together.

I had the chance to experience two incredible holiday light displays in Kansas City on Christmas Eve:

• Sar Ko Aglow in Lenexa, KS
• Glolathe at Stagecoach Park in Olathe, KS

Both were nothing short of spectacular! Twinkling lights wrapped around trees, glowing pathways, and vibrant colors turned these parks into winter wonderlands. The photos I’ve shared capture just a glimpse of the festive spirit that filled the air.

As we close out the year, I want to send you all cheer, peace, and happiness. May your day be filled with laughter, love, and the sparkle of holiday lights. Here’s to creating beautiful memories and embracing the joy that this season brings.

Thank you for being part of my community—I’m truly grateful for you.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!✨

Holiday Magic in Kansas City: Tinsel & ’Tinis and the Crown Center Lights

Greetings friends! I’m back with another holiday post – and this one is all about our last Saturday outing before Christmas. This past weekend, we headed downtown to Kansas City’s iconic Union Station for Holiday Reflections, and this year (once again) we scored the coveted Tinsel & ’Tinis tickets! These adults-only passes sell out quickly, and it's understandable – it was pure holiday magic.

The evening was filled with festive entertainment: Santa made an appearance, carolers strolled through the halls, live musicians played seasonal favorites, and a DJ kept the energy high. The pop-up cocktail bar was the star of the night, serving up themed, creative holiday craft cocktails. My favorite? The Peppermint Twistini – as delicious as it sounds! Russell Stover sweetened the night with complimentary hot cocoa kits and assorted chocolates, which added an extra cozy touch.

The atmosphere was enchanting. Union Station was decked out in dazzling lights, whimsical animatronics, model trains, and plenty of photo-worthy spots. We wandered through the holiday village, sipping cocktails and soaking in the sights while live music played in the background. It truly felt like stepping into a winter wonderland.

After our Tinsel and 'Tinis adventure, we walked through the skywalk to Crown Center, home to Hallmark’s headquarters, and enjoyed the Hallmark Christmas Experience. Late at night, the holiday market was mostly closed, but the ice skating rink was still open, and we got a spectacular view of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree. All of Crown Center was glowing with festive lights, adding even more magic to the evening.

Tonight, on Christmas Eve, we’ll keep our yearly tradition alive with a late-night reservation at The Cheesecake Factory in the Plaza. For over 100 years, Country Club Plaza has been a historic open-air shopping and dining destination in the heart of Kansas City. Each holiday season, the Plaza transforms into a breathtaking spectacle: 15 blocks of Spanish-inspired architecture illuminated by thousands of jewel-colored lights, highlighting every dome, tower, and window. It’s truly a sight to behold!

After enjoying appetizers and a festive cocktail, we’ll stroll through the Plaza lights and then drive down Ward Parkway and other neighborhoods known for their spectacular displays. It’s the perfect way to wrap up the holiday season in Kansas City.

As we soak in the glow and warmth of Kansas City’s holiday spirit, I’m reminded of how these traditions make the season so special. Whether you’re sipping cocoa by the tree, sharing laughter with loved ones, or simply enjoying the sparkle of twinkling lights, may your Christmas Eve be filled with joy, peace, and a little extra magic. Cheers to a beautiful holiday and a bright New Year ahead!

A Magical Holiday Tradition: GloWild and Glimmer at the KC Zoo

Happy holidays, friends!

Last week, we continued our "exploring KC" December tradition with a Christmas outing to GloWild at the Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium. This annual fundraiser (now in it's fourth year), transforms the zoo into a nighttime wonderland—with over a mile-long journey of dazzling, lighted sculptures. 

🎅Festive Fun Around Every Corner

Visitors can meet Santa, decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus, ride the Endangered Species Carousel, enjoy live music from local choirs, and savor seasonal treats and beverages. While the animals rest after dark, the KC Zoo Railroad becomes a whimsical ride through a lighted Whoville, complete with the Grinch as conductor. This year’s theme, Time Traveler, takes guests on a journey through nineteenth-century Paris, America’s centennial celebration, and even a sci-fi-inspired future—plus a few delightful surprises along the way. Each display is a masterpiece, crafted by more than 150 artisans using 34 tons of steel and 89,000 feet of fabric.

🎄New This Year: Glimmer

This year, GloWild introduced Glimmer, an adults-only holiday pop-up bar. I couldn’t resist snagging add-on tickets (over a month ago) to experience the festive décor, themed cocktails, and tasty appetizers. The posh private igloos were stunning, and since this unique bar and experience sold out pretty much every night, I felt lucky to get us in!

🌟An Unforgettable Night

Despite the very high winds and extremely chilly weather, we braved the elements—and it turned out to be perfect. With gusts over 40 mph, the zoo was nearly empty, giving us the rare chance to explore without crowds. I captured some incredible photos of GloWild and Glimmer, making the evening even more magical.

📸Come Along for the Journey

From glowing sculptures to cozy igloos, this holiday adventure was unforgettable. Join me as I share the sights, sounds, and sparkle of GloWild—because the season is all about creating memories that shine.

🤶Christmas Is Almost Here

With Christmas just a couple of days away, the excitement is building! The lights, music, and cozy traditions make this season so special, and I’m soaking up every magical moment. Whether it’s watching a holiday movie or braving the winter chill for dazzling displays, these experiences remind us why this time of year feels so warm and bright.

⛄More Holiday Cheer Ahead

The celebrations aren’t over yet—there are still plenty of festive sights and surprises to share! Stay tuned for more holiday adventures, sparkling lights, and joyful memories as I count down to Christmas Day. Wishing you peace, laughter, and a little extra sparkle as we wrap up this wonderful season together.

✨ What about you? 

I’d love to hear your favorite holiday traditions or festive outings! Drop a comment below and share how you’re making this season merry and bright.