Visit With the Big Man

I took the kids to see Santa before Thanksgiving this year. Before you become disgusted with how corporate American has brainwashed me and my priorities are all out of whack, let me explain. Last year's Santa visit...well, it left a lot to be desired. We didn't get any of our usual opportunities and the next thing you know we were running out of time. The kids had a good time, but Santa didn't look great or have any lap to speak of. The pictures weren't anything special. It wouldn't have been such a big deal, but Isaac is right on the cusp of not wanting to participate and it was really important to me to get what may be the last picture of the kids together with Santa. I needed a good one in case this was it. So, I knew I couldn't wait this year. I got a half off photos coupon that expired on Thanksgiving. I decided to bring the kids down first thing the day Santa arrived.

I got them fed and dressed in an approximation of their Christmas clothes and headed to the mall. We were first in line. We watched Santa ride in on the train. As he passed he smiled warmly and took Riley's hand long enough to squeeze it. She was star struck. We had discussed that this visit was early and it was best to leave their requests general. Isaac struggled with this idea, but in the end politely requested "more Legos." Riley sweetly requested "princess dolls." The kids had a nice visit.

Be careful with your cynicism friends we are all believers here. It is the last magic of childhood I'm trying to preserve for him and the first memories of the magic for her.