The Santa Capers

Nana and Pa have been visiting from Oregon for a few days. Today, while Peter and I worked, they hung out with 4 of the 6 granddaughters. Because they are adventurous (or crazy), they decided to take these 4 little ladies to see not one but two Santas. We needed a picture of our 3 with The Big Guy--one that didn't include Mommy in it, too. And little Annsley hadn't visited SC just yet. They went to Bass Pro first--I know it sounds a little country, but pictures with Santa are free, and if you can look past the mounted dead animals all around, the Winter Wonderland they set up in there is kind of lovely. Apparently, it was super crowded in there today, which I guess would be expected since school is out. Pictures with Molly and Rebecca individually and Annsley and Amelia together.

Then they met Aunt Meredith at the Pink Palace for the Enchanted Forest/Festival of Trees. Molly loves to do the scavenger hunt there, and they all love the themed tree displays. The little critters that make up the forest are the same one from my childhood--I have posted on this bit of nostalgia before (last year). Anyway, they waited in line again for Santa, and got the Money Shot with our three girls. Meredith confessed that this picture belies the talent of the photographer, as it was the one moment when Amelia did not look completely terrified. Also, all three adults commented on how great this particular Santa was with the girls, especially Amelia. (You may recall her earlier encounter at Alpine Village, in which she repeatedly answered the question "do you want to go sit on Santa's lap?" with a very polite but firm, "um, no fanks" and employed the Grip of Death on my arm.) So now we have a picture of all three Marshlets looking less-than-terrified, with the best Santa in Memphis.