Santa Has Arrived

I took Jenna and Miranda to the mall today to get their Christmas pictures taken at Sears. Things went fairly well considering the subjects- a 3 year old and 1 year old. Miranda didn't want to sit where we posed her, which in turn distracted Jenna. I managed to get a couple of good pictures, after a little cropping and editing. I would post the pictures here, but that would ruin the surprise for those receiving our Christmas card this year. After our photo session, we had lunch and started to make our way back to Sears to pick up our pictures. We were on the top level of the mall so Jenna could see all the elaborate Christmas decorations that are already hung. She kept asking to "look down there" (look down through the railing). To her delight, Santa had arrived and was sitting in his plush red velour chair, ready to hear the wishes of all children who were courageous enough to sit on his lap. Of course Jenna was so excited she about jumped over the railing. We made our way down to Santa and since it is only November 16th, there was no line! Jenna was glowing- she was so excited! She made her way up to Santa, while I pushed the stroller with Miranda seated so peacefully. Until... Santa waved to her. Miranda started balling! Needless to say, I didn't even try to get Miranda out of the stroller and onto Santa's lap. But, like most parents, we will be visiting Santa again for a photo op, even though Miranda will most likely be hysterical. Our parents did it to us, it is only fair that we do it to our children. Once Santa was out of view, Miranda composed herself and I was able to hear Jenna's wish list. The best part of her conversation with Santa was when she told him that Miranda wanted a dolly. How sweet! She loves her sister so much and wants to make sure that Santa doesn't forget about her. We said our good-byes to Santa and off we went. And, in case you were wondering, only 39 more days until Christmas!!! HO HO HO!!!