I swear we have made a tradition out of seeing Santa multiple times. First was an early trip with the Schwartz family to their Santa display of choice at a local mall. I splurged and bought a package and the online print. So you can see it first hand right here below.

Much like Macy’s Santa trips of previous years we headed to Culver’s after for dinner with our friends. It is a little sad that Macy’s closed down but this Santa experience was excellent none the less.

Of course I took some before pictures. Not every day we get these 5 so nicely dressed. Gavin wore the blue shirt and Zander the cream. Enjoy!

Our other established (as in 3 years now) tradition is the YMCA Santa. They really do do an enjoyable evening with cookies and crafts and a bouncy house. Not to mention a movie in the activity center and the chance to see Santa and Mrs. Claus they gave out books this year!

This year we met up with our homeschool buddies. But since they wanted to see Santa and then eat we came early to play around. After all there was lots to do. Trinity and Echo both had their hands painted by Trinity’s drawing teacher Mr. Eddy.

The boys, who were not in the frilly wear were able to spend some time in the bouncy house. We also picked up some reindeer food and tried out the non paint related crafts.

In line

After Santa, who was amazing… as usual. A thanks to Aimee for taking a group picture for us… 

We went to Culver’s for dinner. All in all TWO great evenings seeing Santa with good friends!

Oh and here is the overflow of cute!

And a bonus Santa… Home Depot !!

Well it is that time again – our traditional visit with Macy’s Santa with Nana and Baba. We actually went early this year what with Nana and Baba’s visit being over Thanksgiving. (Zander is in blue stripes)

I cheated and ordered our two new dresses off Amazon, and at the last minute! They got in the morning of our trip to the cities. 

The boys lucked out with a combination of new Walmart sale find shirts and an old favourite for the boy who misplaced his new shirt. 

Some photos, Dad and Baba done their work and off we went.

The display at Macy’s is basically the same thing every year with small additions. We figure this year there are a few new animals out. 

We took quite a few photos. Though every year we find it takes less and less time to go through the display. 

The real draw is SANTA, of course. 

Official Santa pic.

After Santa was letters and snacks and more photos. 

We have one final tradition – after all the seasonal fun it is off to Culver’s for dinner. 

We were so glad Nana and Baba could be here for something that this year marked the beginning of our Christmas season.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

We have a Christmas tradition that was started here in Minnesota… every year we head to the big Macy’s in the cities and see the Elves Village and then visit Santa. The display has not changed much in the past years BUT the kids always find something new to spot in it. This year it was kitties. We think some were new to the year but additionally the kids really hadn’t noticed them in the past.

Extra special treat, after missing last year THIS year Baba was able to take the time off work and join us there. So we had lots of photo opportunities and fun with BOTH grandparents!

Can you spot the sleeping kitty?

I have to say our Santa is lovely. The kids had a great time talking with him, getting their Macy’s I saw Santa pins. Nana even treated them to Christmas themed candy! YUM!

Of course, we chose the personality rich Santa picture. At least this year the photo elf got it. In past years they seemed confused why we wouldn’t want the more “perfect” photo. And yes, I am aware that if you look back at LAST year’s picture the boys are wearing the same sweaters… what can I say, dressy clothes are at a premium here for the males in our family. Now the girls, dresses for days.

Anyway, great family experience… another tradition checked off our list!

Leaving notes for Santa