Monday, December 8, 2014

Breezy Family Getaway-Minneapolis, MN

Most people wouldn't think of Minneapolis in December as a fun weekend getaway. Most would prefer a warm destination, something with a beach, or at least some sun. But not the Breezies!! We have been dreaming for four years of going to the Holidazzle parade in Minneapolis.

One day back in October I was randomly searching trips on Expedia (which is a regular hobby of mine) and I found a great travel deal! We paid $350 for two round trip flights and two nights hotel. I as so sir it as a mistake that I begged hubby to book it with me before they fixed the error. We got it booked and we looked forward to the tip for weeks!!

This past weekend we finally went!! I didn't have a set plan, because 1)that's ridiculous with a one year old baby and 2)I was so ready to just relax and let go of control. It ends up being a blast! I had a few random ideas that I had found on Pinterest and we came up with some things last minute just because.

Friday we got up at 3 am (what you have to do for cheap flights anymore) and were in Minneapolis by mid morning. We first went to the downtown Macy's for the Santa Land display and it was so cool!!
Jaxon loved the Santa Land, with all the movie displays and lights and music. He did not, however, love Santa. It wasn't bad, but he wouldn't tolerate it very long and looked very unsure of the strange man! So funny!

After that we went and spent the evening in the mall of America. We did some fun shopping but mostly just walked around and hung out. 

Saturday we woke up early (thanks Jax) and took a drive to the Wisconsin border. Jaxon has now been in nine states, I believe, and has photo proof of eight state signs. 

Then we headed to Como Park zoo and conservatory. This was a location I found on Pinterest and am so happy that I did! It was free and was so beautiful! We loved walking around the gardens inside and then we saw a few animals outside while Jaxon napped all warm under blankets in the stroller. The conservatory with the poinsettias was absolute breath taking!! I was absolutely determined to get s photo of the room without anyone walking through. For this I had to wait 40 minutes, but it was so worth the result!!

Saturday night was a bit of a struggle. It was getting very cold, and I was still fighting the flu, and we had a difficult time finding a restaurant with an open table and that allowed babies. We were s little surprised with how rude some of the waitresses and hostesses were downtown. We stopped and regrouped in a little coffee shop and I loved the hot chocolate! We walked through rice park before finally finding a restaurant closer to our hotel.

I was thrilled to go to bed early that night after supper. I was just exhausted and did not feel well. Sunday was spent relaxing at the hotel and doing some last minute Christmas shopping before flying home. On the flight back I think my boys were a bit worn out too!

So, I completely understand that this was not a dream trip for most people. But for us it was wonderful!! We spent time together, reconnecting and making memories. We did something that we have talked about for years. It was perfect.

Sometimes the small things make the biggest difference in this Little Life.