Breakfast with Santa

Jeff and I had plans to take the girls to see Santa this weekend. We wanted to take them to Bass Pro Shop because they have the real Santa and Free pictures. (Both of which are very important facts!)

 

Since my sewing machine is still not ready (grr!) a trip to Macon would end up costing is $$ and that defeated our purpose. So, last night we decided to just go to Milledgeville and pay for the picture. Note: Milledgeville= Santa’s ELF (as in not real) and a $10 picture, but it would take less time and would equal the cost of gas to Macon. (We really are trying to be frugal.)

Then at 9:30 last night Robyn called to tell us about a local church that was hosting Breakfast with Santa this morning for free.

Note: Local (no gas) + Free Santa= SCORE!

Turns out it was a WONDERFUL experience.

   

They decorated a LOT! It was a western theme which apparently is what their Bible School theme will be for 2010. They promoted their Bible School at every turn. (Smart!)

All of the kids got to choose a western ornament- and these were paper ornament, no, they were NICE wooden ornaments.

 

We did not know if the REAL Santa would be there, but he WAS and he brought Mrs.. Clause, TOO! Yippee!!!

 

Jenna was anxious waiting her turn to talk to the Jolly Elf. You see, she would NOT see Santa until she was in Kindergarten. It was a nightmare for her and me.

Santa had a nice stable decor for pictures. It looked so nice. We started by letting Jenna go alone just in case Jade wouldn’t cooperate.

Turns out Jade did fine. I wouldn’t say she LOVED them, but she treated them as she would most any stranger- visit for a minute and then flee.

Then we really confused Santa. Jenna took pictures with Zach and Bryn. Of course, Robyn and I were both snapping pictures. Santa called me up and asked me about the dynamics of our family. I think we shocked him when he found out that a mom and step mom (and dads) could be together and share the experience.

I don’t know what Zach asked for, but Santa called Robyn up to tell her about a particular shop that he thought she should visit.

Bryn (age 3) asked for an iPod, a DSI, and a cell phone.

Jenna asked for a L-A-P-T-O-P. She literally spells it. She NEVER says the word. I think she knows it’s a BIG request and she may not get it.

Jenna’s classmate, Amanee, and his family showed up breakfast, too. He is a super neat kid who is very smart and can speak 2 languages. Not to mention, he is a heck of a soccer player.

The church gave each kid western goodie bags full of stickers and goodies. They then had 2 rooms for making crafts and ornaments.

Bryn proudly showed her off, but Jade would NOT be still for me to get a pic of hers.

The pictures do not do it justice, but the decorations were incredible. Every detail in every room was awesome. Someone put in some long hours of time and talent.

Then they had breakfast. I don’t mean just any breakfast, either. They had waffles, pancakes, sausage, juice, coffee, and milk. In the worship center they had tables and big screens playing Christmas movies.

While you ate, they printed out your pictures with Santa.

 

Everyone there was so friendly and welcoming. They all wished us a Merry Christmas. I am thankful for the invitation and plan to attend next year. This made for a super fun morning.

Lakeside Church truly provided us with a blessing today.

Look who we snagged and brought home with us- RYLEIGH! Jeff and I haven’t seen her in a few weeks and we are glad to have her with us today!

Jade is now napping while Jenna and Ryleigh paint a plate and mug for Santa. (snagged at Target for 75% off last year)

This afternoon we plan to hit the matinee to see A Christmas Carol 3D. (that is if the Macs will keep Jade)

What a great day….and it’s only 11:30am!