I Saw Three Ships Come Sailing In BEFORE Christmas Day

My dad got bright idea last Sat am to go up to Lake WA & try out the Christmas Ship Festival instead of Snowball Express (too dark too fast & earlier times sold out apparently for latter). So even though we should've built an ark en route we literally cruised up there in the rain that very Sat afternoon!Apparently it's been going on for 60 yrs, but first opportunity for us to taste delicious three-course dinner on board Royal Argosy Dinner Ship & watch 2 "performances"...guess you'd have to be there to appreciate the humor in that phrase, but we were a little apprehensive about what was expected of passengers or the ability of the boats themselves:) Little did we know, we would have splendid vocals provided & a little band for the whole night in the dining room whether we liked it or not-ugh! Added our own dance party toward end since we were seated front & center...
Paige quickly caught on that all activities have tendency to become wrestling matches if not careful even in public!
Certainly didn't let the weather dampen our spirits nor the Santa imposter, I mean, happy helper (no offense to red-headed friends, but c'mon! his youth & coloring didn't really go with the image except I guess, emph on red cheeks?! Luke & Paige fully agreed with every fiber of their one-year-old beings:) Notice luxury of being on opposite end of the table from 2 of my 3 always well-mannered little boys:) We took advantage of one more photo op with this guy awaiting the later passengers 'cuz I thought he was a lil' more authentic:) In fact the boys have asked me several times in the car about their confusion re: so many running around & claiming to be Mr Claus?! So not really question of believing, but in whom & all the logistics?:) Ahh, to be 7 again! But I digress...
Anyway, good food & great company with Shaws, Bergesons & Uffens!! Enjoyed gawking @ Bill Gates' home amidst the downpour & festivities surrounding the lit boats encircling us.
I've always been a true Washington girl when it comes to cheesy seasonal songs, but THANKS Clark/Grandpa Gar as well as Grandma Neecy braving elements & footing bill so we could truly enjoy a fun night celebrating Christmas in the NoWest together!