Not a Fan of Santa!

This past Friday, The Shops at Greenridge, held their annual tree lighting and arrival of Santa festivities. We attended last year despite poor weather and having to move everything indoors. We thought they did a great job and had an awesome Santa's helper. This year the weather was still a little cold and dreary, but no chance of rain! So, all the activities were held outside. Hot chocolate and cookies were being passed out to those waiting in line for Santa to make his grand appearance. Bracelets with bells were also given to all the kids so they could make lots of noise when Santa came in on his horse and carriage! Not your typical sleigh with 8 tiny reindeer, but pretty cool and magical in its own way. Once Santa arrived, the kids helped count down for the tree lighting, and then it was time for what we were all there for...to sit on Santa's lap! 

Cal was mesmerized with the large tree and all the 'balls' on it. No matter what the object is, if it is in the shape of a circle, it is a ball to him! When the carriage arrived carrying Santa, Callen could have cared less about Santa and was all about the horse. He wanted to go closer to see the horse, and continued to point to it throughout the night whenever he saw it trotting past while giving carriage rides through the parking lot to those willing to wait! 

What Cal was not so mesmerized with was the man in the big red suit and white beard! I kept pumping up Santa to him all day and the entire time we were in line. I don't think my pep talks seemed to help. As soon as it was our turn, and I started walking towards Santa, I could feel Callen's legs start to clinch around my waist. He wanted no part of this man. And then I dropped him off in Santa's lap so we could get the yearly picture...no good!! Cal was sliding out of his lap before Doug could barely snap 2 or 3 pictures. Hopefully in the years to come, Cal will come to realize the good and magical Santa that we all know and love! As for this year...