Christmas spirit 12/16/06

Today we did a few Christmas oriented things, the first of which was listen to a Christmas concert given by the Kenwood Orchestra in the Crystal Court of the IDS Center. Two of Hiroe's friends are in the orchestra. That's Hiroe in the fore ground in the long dark brown coat. The concert lasted for about an hour.












There were many dancing and flying bears in the area. Kind of a christmas circus theme. Barnum and Bailey meet Santa Claus.

























This bear was Hiroe's favorite. He was clearly the least threatening. One false step by the other bears and you'd have a big white ball of hair rapidly falling from directly above you.


















This guy had a pretty easy job. Hold the sticks and watch intently.


















Waiting for mom.


















I guess this bear wasn't very dangerous either. Except that he had probably been drinking.


















Weee.


















Woo hoo...












I think he is the official photographer for this orchestra. I could do that job. But better. Note that only one of us in this photo is actually taking a photo. He did have a nice camera, though.


















Later in the day we went to the Hollidazzle Parade downtown. Typically, there is snow and cold for this parade. This year it was dry and above freezing. A perfect year for us to finally go.












They had caged children on display.












And lots of lights.

























This was a Wizard of Oz display. That's the Wizard on the screen in the top center of the float.












Even the Wicked Witch of the North was in the parade, waving happily and not looking where she is going.


















This was the coolest snowman ever. He'd move along at high speed then suddenly stop and do 360 degree spin at top speed. Sweet.


















A gingerbread house.













And a shiny , shiny soldier.













And a magical bus. This was an actual city bus. Never again will you have to wonder if you caught the right bus. Just wait at stop 37 for the bus with the lights. Trust me, you'll know it when you see it.













Lastly, Rodolph the Red Nosed Reindeer appeared....












... carrying a very happy santa.












After the parade we walked Nicollet Ave. This was a giant big screen TV with a fireplace (I guess that's obvious from the picture).













We then had dinner at D'Amico in Butler Square. We saw this when we looked up. Unlike the bears, these two had a net. I felt much safer.












Even First Ave is ready for Christmas. Santa on a cycle. Perfect.