Christmas Traditions: Visiting Santa

Along with taking family pictures, the annual visit to Santa's lap is another tradition we do like most parents with small kids. At the risk of sounding like cheapskates, we took the cost effective route on this activity as well by finding a free Santa rather than forking out $20 at the mall. My mom heard that Wells Fargo would have a Santa available for photo opts so to the bank we went. Mr. Wells Fargo Santa was much more personable than the mall Santa the year before; there were no other kids or parents around when we arrived so we didn't have to feel rushed; and, we got the Kris Kringle experience with leaving a little extra money in our pockets for Christmas presents!

Caleb's been talking about "Ho Ho" a lot this holiday season, in particular referring to some pictures we have on a few window clings. However, when face to face with the jolly, plump character, our normally talkative toddler was speechless. He didn't cry or seem scared; he just cautiously took it all in and tried to figure out who this red suited fella was. His stunned reaction cracked us up!

"Who is this guy and why am I on his lap?!?!?"

"Maybe if I don't look at him he will go away."

"I'm still trying to ignore you, dude."

"Is that beard real?"

"Those are kind of cool."

"Mommy, did you get the picture yet?"

Here is a video of the experience (which will probably only truly be appreciated by those who know how friendly Caleb normally is in contrast to his hesitancy with St. Nick):