The temps they were falling, but the feelings were getting warmer.

There were a number of happenings that were about to coincide. You know the feelings. It’s holiday season, and there always seems to be a bunch of differing celebrations. Some of them are unexpected and some of them you can choose. Maybe those choices are what makes the season full of joy.

Members of our family were going to join us for a Thanksgiving feast. That by itself is a very pleasant feeling. But wait, there’s more!

Our local community would be hosting a holiday stroll event while the family is with us. Just the thought of us meeting at the local train depot gave me warm tickles. I could hear the giggles that would soon arrive. Soon a schedule of events was lined up, and the glow of the time began with the arrival of the train. However, just one slight caveat.

We were forecast to experience the coldest days of the season. On the bright side, there would be no blizzard. Thank you, weather gods!

The train arrived and our granddaughter and her daddy stepped off it — hugs prevailed. After checking into the local historic hotel, a bite to eat was had and we parted to rest for the coming days.

The next couple of days were a mix of food, liquids, adventures, photo ops, giggles and bonding.

Another one of our sons arrived, and brought cheese, crackers, a bottle of Tembo Pinot Noir wine and some Modist Brewing Testament Apocalyptic City IPA with him. The Thanksgiving dinner was delightful and delicious, and was the result of a lot of planning, preparing and pampering. You know the radiant feeling of eating, sipping and enjoying each others company over a festive meal, right? The pinot noir was perfect with the meal. Its soft luscious cherry tastes mated perfectly with everything. A wine to warm the hearts of everyone.

Following the meal, the time was devoted to family bonding by playing games, reading nursery rhymes and other enjoyable activities. No dozing was allowed — the granddaughter made sure of that! One of the activities was to open a bottle of vintage 1989 Rémy Martin Grande Champagne Cognac, and raise our glasses in a toast to the fam. Oh, by the way, the cognac was warmingly magnifique! Thank you, son-in-law!

The following day was fast moving. It was filled by a movie at the local historic theater, delicious muffins and coffee at my favorite local coffee shop. From it, we exited into the patio to experience the warming glow of holiday lighted trees and some unbelievably cute alpacas. The excitement of the granddaughter was matched by the joy shining from the faces of the adults.

Did I mention it was darn cold, but, being a true Northerner, it could have been worse. At least the wind wasn’t too bad.

We wandered the streets and ended up in the historic hotel to visit a train exhibit, and the granddaughter had to get her sparkly face tattoo. We listened to carolers and warmed up with a glass of Captain Morgan’s Rum spiced apple cider. We finished the day with a bit to eat, and the next day the train took the granddaughter and her daddy back home.

That night I toasted the family with a glass of son provided IPA. I loved the nicely balanced malt and hop flavors. A perfect ending to a perfect Thanksgiving gathering.

Yes it was cold, but the family and the crowds around us provided a warming sense of togetherness.

Wherever you are, may you fully experience the warmth of the holiday season.