New Year's Eve

Since Scott and I have been married, we have never had what I would consider a "grown-up" New Year's Eve. One where we get dressed up, go out WITHOUT kids, and actually celebrate the new year (you know, with fireworks and all). So, after a little begging and getting the Andersons in on it, Scott agreed to go to the Roof Restaurant and to the "First Night" festivities in downtown Salt Lake. We even splurged and got a hotel for the night. Although it was FREEZING, it was really fun to get dressed up, eat tons of food, and see the different things going on downtown. Plus, our hotel had a shuttle, so we were able to avoid some of the cold, the parking, and a lot of the crowds, which was nice.

This is Scott and me FREEZING outside:

The Roof Restaurant, where we ate, is an upscale buffet (I know that sounds weird, but there's no other way to describe it) that overlooks the Salt Lake Temple grounds. There was live piano music, a huge 2009 ice sculpture, and so much delicious food (including two long tables filled with different gourmet desserts). Also, for the occasion, they decorated the tables with confetti and gave everyone party hats, beads (for the girls) and noisemakers.

Chad & Katie Scott & me

We spent part of the night (before and after we ate) at Temple Square. All of the performances there were free and there was a lot to choose from. Just in the time we were there we saw a pipe/drum band and also John Schmidt (a contemporary pianist/singer). Just before midnight, we returned to the Gallivan Center for the countdown and the fireworks - which were some of the best we have ever seen! All in all we had a really fun night!