Seeing Santa

Each year, my work has a holiday party for children of employees.  They rent an indoor amusement park, have pictures with Santa and give the kids tokens to play games.  It's always a fun time and we look forward to seeing Santa here each year.

We try to get there right when it opens since there is usually a long line to see Santa and we like to try to beat the rush.


Liam liked to dump out his coins and chase them around the floor.  It was a fine line in letting him play and not having coins scatter everywhere.  I didn't want to be the one leaving the room with a screaming toddler.  :)


One of my coworkers behind me in line took this picture with my camera.  Scott and I are in the picture because Liam would not go near Santa and Mrs. Claus.


Here is the official picture we received - it's slightly better than the one from my camera.  I think Liam is just at the age where he's not going to be happy with Santa.  It's so nice that we get a picture with Santa and we don't have to brave the crowds at other places in town to see the big guy.


After Santa, we had donuts before heading out to play games.


Fueled by sugar, the boys were ready to play.  We all rode the dragon roller coaster.  Liam did not like it at all, when it started going fast he burst into tears.  Luckily, it was a quick ride and he was relieved when it stopped.  Karsten and I rode the other ride while Liam and Scott checked out other activities.

Then, we headed off to put those coins to good use and earn some tickets.


One of the favorite parts of this place is the play area.  Liam wasn't quite old enough to get in the big area, so he stayed in the toddler area and played on the slide.


Karsten was off and running - we tried to keep track of him which was a feat with all of the kiddos running around.  Thankfully there was only one entrance/exit so we could make sure he didn't wander out on his own.


Having so much fun!


We tried to catch Karsten after this slide so we could move along to something else, but he said 'One more time' and ran off.  GRRR.  Oh well, pick my battles, right?  :)


Next up was this little train.  How stinkin' cute is this.  As soon as it started, Karsten put his arm around Liam in case he got scared.  We didn't prompt this at all.


Enjoying the ride!


The carosel is always a hit - deciding where to sit is a big decision.  Luckily, Liam doesn't have much of an opinion yet, so we can seat him next to Karsten so I can get a picture.  I realize this will not always be the case.


It was another fun Christmas party and a great way to kick off the holiday season!