Last night my boys and I went to partake of the Christmas tree lighting ceremony in the North Dakota state capitol building’s Great hall. As I’ve posted before, this isn’t their first time to witness this event. Even though they were only two years old last year, they remember it well. They think the Great Hall should have a Christmas tree every day. Who can argue with that?

This year my little fellas got to meet some people afterwards and work their charms. I have such polite little men, I’m overflowing with pride at how well they behave and conduct themselves at events like this. They got to introduce themselves to the Hoevens.

The bright lights shining on the tree from above were bothering their eyes, but they still did their best to politely pose with Brandi Schoenberg, Miss North Dakota for 2010-2011. They told her how Daddy was taking them out for cheeseburgers after they were done.

The star of the evening: a glorious Christmas Tree with decorations made and donated by North Dakotans. It will be on display in the Great Hall, so come take a look! It’s best viewed at the end of the day when it gets dark outside.

The display is also visible from outside as you drive by or, if you’re crazy, hike up the snow-covered steps to get a closer look.

Yes, the window display is in full effect. The North and South faces of the capitol tower are sporting their familiar red and green Christmas Tree shape.

The ceremony was grand, with a brass quartet from the Bismarck-Mandan Symphony playing as well as pianist Joel Gilbertson and a brief performance by Dakota Stage. My favorite part was that the entire assembly sang Silent Night and God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, two songs that are very clear in mentioning the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Okay, folks…we’re in full swing. We have approximately two and a half weeks of Christmas season remaining. Let’s enjoy this time to its fullest and cherish our Christmas memories!