You better not pout....

Please note Teddy to the left, and that fact that the candy cane is already being consumed.

Santa has come to town, and, as we did last year I bundled up Teresa and headed off to the mall to see the jolly old coot for a very cynical photo op. Teresa does not realize yet that her Christmas happiness hinges on this one man (whatever) or that she will receive gifts in his name. Basically, I didn't want to tell her about Santa, and Ken was on the fence, but we caved to societal pressure, knowing that her contact with other kids would bring her knowledge. We don't make a big deal out of it, and focus more on the religious aspect of the holiday. Right now Teresa likes Jesus more than Santa, and I aim to keep it that way.

The morning was spent with Jackie and her boys Porter and Hudson, and a new addition to our tradition, Colleen and Addie. Addie is only four months old, and the only one of our group who actually smiled. All week Teresa knew she would see Santa. We talked about it, read some stories, life was good. We got to the mall early so that Teresa could see him in action, and she claimed she was excited. It was finally our turn, and Teresa burst into tears and refused to leave my side. No longer the amateur, I got Teddy out of my purse, calmed her down, and asked what she wanted. Teresa claimed Teddy wanted to sit on Santa's lap, but she would not. Accepting this compromise, We took the photo you see before you. I still have to feel a little proud.....my daughter will still not sit on strangers laps for candy.