Last year we braved the snow and took Caleb, Abby and Elle to get their picture taken with Santa. Trucking two babies and a two year old through the mall was tough but totally worth it.
I'm sure people in the mall who saw us coming thought we were crazy for trying this but,
look how cute they are?
Well done 2010!
This year we braved it with a three year old and two almost two year olds,
it should be way easier right?
WRONG???
We decided to try it stroller-less...in and out.
They can all walk right?
A herd of turtles I tell you, and if you let go of one for even a second they take off.
Where is that speed when we are all holding hands?
We made it to Santa's village with three excited little people and two tired Mommy's.
Our adventure had just begun.
Here's how it turned out...
We started with the Irvine's on their own since they didn't have one of just the two of them yet.
Since this was going so well, and Santa was super helpful and cooperative, (haha...sense the sarcasm) we decided to try and get Elle in there too. I started by standing her in front of Abby, but she took off. When I caught her I tried to put her on Caleb's lap, because there was no offer from Santa she was terrified and took off, don't believe me see our family photo here. The whole time I was putting her in I was ducking and yelling "just take one". I wasn't looking for the best family photo ever, just proof of our years of trying.
So, the above photo, as unwarm and Christmasy as it is, totally represents the mood of our experience.
It will take it's place, as the 2011 memory, and wait to see what next year holds.
Never a dull moment or a wasted memory.
Not every picture as rosy as you plan.
But a family full of love and Mommies willing to battle the Christmas craziness for a photo.
I love our memories with Elle's cousins.
And wouldn't trade this picture for one with perfect smiles and children standing like soldiers.
This is real life.
Better luck next year?
