IT'S SO MUCH MORE THAN SANTA

This past Saturday, I had the honor of hosting a Santa booth at an annual fundraiser.  The kicker is, I didn't know I would be doing this job until a couple of weeks ago!  I got the cry for help from a friend of mine and said, "Sure!" as my mind raced in about 20 directions!

In between everything else, including an international business trip for my husband, I busted my buns to pull everything I needed together to do it up right.  I've never hosted a booth like this before and was praying I had covered all my bases.  I'm blessed to have a teenage son willing to play Santa and a mom willing to welcome people and take care of business.  I definitely couldn't have done it without their help!

TIME FOR A TEST RUN

Once I had all the pieces in place, it was time for a test run.  Ava saw Grant get into his costume and was even willing to stand in for some promo photos!  As they were reading the book together, she pointed to Santa and said, "Look, it's Grant!"  Pretty sure she will forever associate Santa with her brother and that's okay by me.  He's a great kid and is the brother who is always willing to build her forts or play Legos or have light saber battles.  Who wouldn't love that!

THE REAL DEAL

My husband arrived home from his trip Friday night, just in time to break everything down and haul it out to the high school.  We filled his truck and my mini van with barely a seat left for Grant to ride along and help!

Saturday morning came and it was go time!  I was told the night before there may be some dogs so I picked up treats and a squeaky toy just in case.  We had no idea what to expect. . . 

THE REASON FOR THE SEASON

Jesus is the reason for the season but Santa reminds us it's so much better to give than it is to receive! 

What did I get out of this?  I got to see the absolute wonder and joy through the eyes of these children.  One little boy even wanted to give him a hug!

There were miles and miles of great big smiles from the children and from Santa . . .

. . . baby snuggles and girls with bows . . . 

. . . books to share . . .

. . . and last but not least, tears of fear . . . 

. . . but they always left happy!

It was a lot of work for my family but it was also a good reminder and rekindling of the simple joys and wonder of all that is Christmas. 

As we head into Thanksgiving week, quickly followed by Christmas, may you treasure each moment of this season of thankfulness and giving with your children or grandchildren.  May your eyes see the beauty and may your heart feel the joy of the reasons for the seasons.

To all who stopped by and shared a little of their families with us, thank you!  

Carrie

P.S.  We didn't have any dogs this year so the treats went home with my mom for her sweet English Bulldog Molly!