We’re fortunate to live in a climate that allows for much outdoor time.  We rarely ever get rain and it’s rarely ever cold enough to warrant a stay indoors.

A couple of weeks ago, we made a special visit to the Orange County Zoo and Irvine Park Railroad with some of the other OC Family Magazine Bloggers and their families.  I’ve taken my son to that very zoo a number of times, but this time we were treated to a private tour by a park ranger.  It was interesting to hear about the zoo and how many of the animals residing there were rescued from illness or injury.  Some of the most interesting animals we saw include two black bears and a mountain lion.  My son particularly enjoys the animals in the barnyard area that can be touched and fed.  The zoo isn’t very big (8 acres), considering how many animals live there.  The entrance fee is $2 (over the age of 2) which is very inexpensive.  My son and I have spent several afternoons at that zoo.

After we took a tour of the Nature Center, we headed towards the front of the park where the train is housed.  My son just loves riding the train…particularly when it involves a visit with Santa. Apparently, it’s tradition to ride the Christmas train.  Once the sun goes down bundle up for a ride to the North Pole to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus.  I’m always impressed with Irvine Park’s holiday -themed events.  We recently visited for their Halloween events an enjoyed it immensely.

The Christmas Train is a tradition and many families come out to board the festively lit and decorated train to visit Santa.  The train drops you off so that you can spend time taking pictures, meeting with Santa, and enjoying winter-themed snacks.  Once you’re ready to head back, you jump back on the train (which seems to come like every 10 minutes or so) and enjoy the ride (with all the lights) back to Santa’s Village.

Here are some more pictures from the event:

And…if you’re in or around the OC tomorrow…and you want to take the kids somewhere fun before Christmas Eve, be sure to print out this coupon for one free adult admission to the Discovery Science Center.  I’ve taken my son a few times and we’ve never managed to see everything because there is so much to see.  The exhibits are constantly changing, which makes it even more likely that we’ll end up getting a family pass.  A couple of weeks ago I had an opportunity to preview the new Science of Gingerbread exhibit.

Along with a display of ninety-four gingerbread creations (submitted by the community) children will enjoy hands-on gingerbread-themed science activities and interactive learning stations.  Be sure to visit on the weekends for gingerbread decorating demonstrations.  Here are some of my favorite entries into this year’s contest:

A small part of what I love about the holiday season is the food.  I love fall-themed desserts and winter drinks.  My favorite coffee shops are serving up Gingerbread Lattes and Winter Dream Tea Lattes (Yum!). To celebrate the arrival of the holidays and the wonderful drinks that come with it, Lenox and TwitterMoms want to know what my favorite drink of the season is so here it goes!  My favorite hot drink (besides tea and lattes?) is spiced cider.  And when you brew it at home, it gives off a lovely scent!  Here is one easy recipe, courtesy of Epicurious!

Spiced Cider Cup

Ingredients:

Preparation:

Combine the ingredients in a saucepan and heat to the boiling point. Remove from the heat and allow the spices to steep for 3 or 4 hours. Strain, chill and serve with ice cubes in tumblers or goblets. If you like, the drink may be reheated and served in 8-ounce mugs.

So tell me…what are you favorite holiday drink?

Lenox & TwitterMoms Drinks of the SeasonMore Drinks of the Season Recipes