This weekend we reached a new milestone in parenthood....Santa!! Since Ethan is only 3 months old, this trip was obviously much more fun for me and Matt. We headed to the Easton TownCenter where I knew they had a fabulous-looking Santa. Seriously, this guy was a spitting image of the guy from the modern "Miracle on 34th Street." We arrived while Santa was "feeding the reindeer" so we hit up Sbux (of course) and did some Christmas shopping!!! The crowds were bustling and the stores were decked out in decor. While we were shopping we heard some glorious singing in the distance. We followed the music and in the middle of the shopping square was a gigantic 30-foot Christmas tree and some of the best Christmas carolers I have ever heard. Sitting there all bundled up, with my hubby next to me, my baby on my lap, sipping a tasty hot peppermint mocha and listening to the gorgeous melody of Christmastime was a memory I will never forget. It truly doesn't get any better than that. My heart was in heaven.
After the music, we headed back to see Santa. This is one popular spot...let me tell you. There were nearly 50 people in line by the time we got there. All the adorable outfits, the little children holding their letters, all the parents with their cameras...it was AWESOME! Ethan was dressed in his fashionable, "My First Christmas" outfit with a reindeer on his butt!! He was an absolute trooper and loved it. I'm pretty sure he enjoyed sitting on Santa because his outfit felt similar to the "fuzzy wuzzy" blanket at home. He sat down (didn't cry) and immediately put his fist in his mouth. As you can tell, Ethan recently discovered his fist and is hooked. HAHAH. He typically sucks on the right fist so I think we may have a right-hander in the making. Santa was so sweet and pulled his fist out of his mouth so we could snap a few photos. Ethan's expression was priceless. Santa even commented on how cute he was:) Well let me be honest and brag here for a moment...everyone was stopping and telling me how precious and adorable he was. Duh...you don't have to tell me :) I already know this!
Having children really does allow you to relive those cherished childhood memories. While I was growing up, I adored visiting Santa. I recognize there are many parents who are on the fence with the whole Santa deal but I have no qualms with it. I grew up with the whole Santa/presents idea and fully understood, recognized and celebrated the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Christ. I believe you can do both!! I am also convinced that the Lord rejoices in all the love, gift giving, tree decorating and family time during season...as long as we focus on Him too.
Here are a few fun photos that we captured from the day!!
