After returning from Hawaii, and before we left for Utah, the girls had another chance to talk to Santa, in the hopes that their requests for a vet kit with kitty and doggy (Amelia), castle (Samantha) and fruity candy canes (both girls received some from teachers at school and from then on eschewed the peppermint versions in favor of strawberry) would be realized.

We went out to dinner with the Nguyens before seeing Santa, and the twins and Parker were in the silliest moods, bouncing all over the booth seats and having a grand time. It’s always a crazy time putting five kids five and under together in close proximity in a waiting/eating situation, but fortunately, we had great company. Parker has always been so patient with the girls, from the time they were 18 months old and barely talking, and it was fun to see them all chatting now that they are a little older and have the most random conversations.

Whatcha ordering, Maple? Mmmmmm…. shrimp pesto pizza sounds delish!

The aftermath from the babies:

This was our third annual time going to our local Santa’s Village with the Nguyens and Meredith and Maple’s first time there. Meredith kept wanting to pet Maple who looked like a cuddly bear in her adorable faux fur coat.

2014: The girls were not even two yet and still used their Wubs.

Last year, we ran into Michael and Parker, while Phi stayed at home with newborn baby Maple. The girls and Parker had an in-depth chat last year about how all the baby business was going since they were soon-to-be big sisters themselves.

Once again enjoying their hot chocolate, one year later:

Meredith was fascinated by Frosty and other interesting life-size stuffed animals. I would pay money to get inside those baby heads and see what they are thinking sometimes!

One of my favorite pics ever!

The twins miraculously didn’t notice the cookie decorating station this year… phew. Between parties, treats from school, baking at home, and Christmas festivities, we were on sugar overload this Christmas.

2014: Santa and Mrs. Clause smartly placated the terrified twins with candy canes for the picture.

No one cried and the twins were rewarded with candy canes from Santa. Meredith gave Santa a wary look at first, but stayed calm being held by Mrs. Clause.

Not every Christmas activity we’ve been to in the past is one we’ve turned into a tradition, but being local, free and simple, Santa’s Village is one that’s here to stay… at least while the girls still believe in Santa!

Lots of love,