Let’s set this scene. First it was in the low 30’s, feeling like a harsh 25. Second it was a Monday night with a 3:46am Tuesday morning. These are all huge factors in committing to plans as I’m a toddler-ish jerk when I’m cold and/or tired. So if I’m standing outside in 25 degree anything during bedtime it better be real deal worth it. This risk came with great reward.

You already know if my night started on the streetcar, we’re pretty ok. Union Station was glowing red like Rudolph’s nose when we pulled up _{^{(I know it’s red for the Chiefs, but in today’s story its for Christmas)}} and the moon was huge and amazing. It was just the most perfect post-Thanksgiving way to officially kick off Christmas, minus the cold.

I know some of the time, I’m ridiculous and get way too excited about dumb things. Which typically leads to disappointment because my expectations are then set in motion. I’m not sorry about it but it does leave me a little let down at times. This totally could have been one of those times. Believe it or not, I’ve been let down by a train before. But you guys. Y’all. I cannot even begin to describe the level of joy I had in my Christmas loving heart when the CPKC Holiday Train rolled into Union Station and it was a real train. Like you can get tickets and ride it in!! Any takers for next year?!

The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train is actually more than just lights and a show. It’s an amazing fundraising campaign that raises money, food and awareness about the local food banks {Harvesters} in the communities it rolls through. Fun facts. The 2023 ride was the 25th annual North American tour. And they’ve raised over $22.5 million and over 5 million pounds of food since 1999. And they have 10 musicians/bands rotating on tour that play free concerts at each stop.

Speaking of, you know in every great Christmas RomCom there’s some sort of holiday concert. Right after the small town baker realizes he’s in love with the designer from the city who has a secret passion for Gingerbread. The town gathers and it finally snows and a fairy gets its wings. You know the moment. It’s a little cheesy. With a dash of cringe sprinkled like sugar. But you can’t change the channel now.

I basically lived my own Hallmark movie scene. Ok so no handsome Christmas tree farmer or quaint cafe where we both ordered the same last scone or snow {did I mention it was cold enough for it?}. But I just knew I was going to turn around and see a camera crew. Just me, making my debut as an extra, because you cannot fake this.

And then the door of the railcar drops…

Now the party, because I know if you read Scene 1, you’re dying to know where/when the breakdancing happened. Hold your reindeer, We’re getting there. So after Kiesza did her thing, and did she ever do her thang, this Australian country music duo, Seaforth, took the stage. I had front row tickets at this point. It was pretty much just me and like 11 people now. Obviously because we know how to party. Solid good time.

So here we are at the end of the night. And how could they possibly top the evening but by bringing Kiesza back out for Santa Clause is Coming to Town!!!!

And because you must save the best for last…

I present to you, my favorite part of the whole night.

The BREAKDANCE.

Merry Christmas to All, and to All a Goodnight!!!

Xo

Midwest Ging