Dallas, Texas

The year is winding down, and we have one last day trip!  It was a total last minute trip due to a last minute appointment at DFW Airport . . . more on that in a minute.  So as soon as Colin's last school Christmas party was over we stopped by the house to wait for a package.  We were expecting a special delivery from DC . . .

. . . oh so yummy!  So over the next few days we will eat devour a dozen of these jewels from DC Cupcakes in Georgetown.  We had our sugar rush and jumped in the car for a fun Christmas treat.  Our first destination was the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center to see the ICE! display.  It is a bit of a walk but always fun too!

We had been a couple years back so were excited to return and see the amazing creations.  The best part was we were there during the day and it was empty!  Colin loved the Tube 'Hill' . . .

We also had fun taking photos and being silly . . .

Our time slot had come so into the bitter cold we went.  They keep the room at 9 degrees but thankfully we came prepared and also used the parkas they provided us.

The theme this year was Christmas Around the World . . .

I think he went down the slides a dozen times until his rear was so cold.

While we did enjoy it; I was a bit disappointed.  I did not think it was as good as last time but was still amazing at what these artisans create!  As we exited, all Colin could talk about was getting a snack . . .

Seriously, a snow cone?  Another favorite was watching the model trains . . .

 . . . and one last photo of us thanks to a mom of two young overly hyper boys drinking a glass of wine none the less . . .

As we were leaving the parking garage, there was a huge line of cars arriving so we learned if we return it will definitely be a weekday before 5pm!  Now the real reason we came to DFW was so we could do our in person interview to receive our Global Entry and TSA Pre-Check status.  The interview was quick; finger prints, photo, passport check, and address confirmation.  We were out of there in less than 10 minutes!

. . . and a week later we are officially 'trusted' travelers!

. . . and just like that our travels of 2015 have come to an end.  We are beginning 2016 with a surprise trip for the birthday boy so stay tuned!