Compassionate Mom of the Year

I posted the old Santa photos below several years ago; however, every time I stumble across them again I get the giggles. I hope it might make some of you chuckle, too. And the good news is a more recent photo proves my oldest girl’s first encouter with Jolly, Old Saint Nick did not traumatize her. Imitation is the sincerest of flattery, no?

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Always one to show empathy and to respect the developmental needs and dignity of my children, here I am, four Christmases ago, with my firstborn ever-so-gently encouraging her to cozy up with Santa. Never mind the absolute terror in her eyes. Never mind that on any other day I would never dream of plopping my precious progeny on the lap of any stranger. Never mind that this stranger happens to be wearing a big red suit, foreboding, black boots, and an impressive white mane and has excessive facial hair.

C’mon, sweet girl, smile! Everyone loves jolly, old St. Nick. Please be joyful as I capture this moment of abandonment when I leave you in the hands of a stranger!