12 Days of Service and Tradition: Day 7

Looks like I will be a few days shy on my 12 Days of Service and Tradition theme. We bumped up our departure to Buffalo which means I've been packing like crazy. Enjoy the last post for this theme. I have a new theme for January and am excited to reveal it soon!

Service
I remember several occasions during my youth when, as a family or a youth group, we would adopt a family in need and leave packages, Christmas trees, food and other necessities. I generally felt very apprehensive about these situations because I didn't want there to be any uncomfortable silences or explaining. I always preferred the ding and ditch style. However, the few times that I ended up face to face with the family, their gratitude and bewildered joy totally erased my discomfort and helped me enjoy the spirit of giving to those who truly needed to receive.


Tradition
Santa can be a scary guy to little ones. My little one has been especially freaked out the man in red. I really wanted to take the kids to see the "nice" Santa here so Patrick and I started explaining that Santa wouldn't know what to bring unless Afton told him. She finally decided that she would tell Santa her wish from the safety of the stroller, however when we arrived at the Children's Museum to see Santa, I quickly realized there wasn't going to be room for the stroller. Luckily, the excitement to be at the musuem helped Afton forget her concern for Santa safety.

Of course, as soon as we got on line, Santa had to go eat lunch. I waited in line while Patrick and Afton played at the museum. 40 minutes later we got to file into the Santa room and watch Santa come down the chimney (definitely worth the wait). Afton thought that was so cool and was excited to meet the Snow Queen that she forgot about being scared and did great! She told Santa loud and clear what she wanted for Christmas ("A 12 Dancing Princesses, the pink one that spins all by herself...the little pink one!!!") and did it with a smile! Abel thought the lights were cool.

the best shot we could get without paying $30 for one photo

Afton talking into the Santa mic. Abel staring at the lights.