Santa!

After our hike and lunch, we headed to the Plaza for the Luminario Lighting and Santa visit. We actually saw Santa around the corner from the Plaza and decided to pay him a visit. However, Sofia wanted nothing to do with Santa or Ms. Claus, despite the basket of candy canes Mrs. Claus held. We watched as Santa and Mrs. Claus drove off on the back of an old fire truck and headed to the Plaza. Uncle Steve, Sofia and her Papa watched a group sing Christmas carols in the Plaza, while waiting for the luminario lighting. Meanwhile, Aunt Shirl and I explored the various goods offered by local artists set up under the portico.

At one point, we noticed the line to visit Santa was very short so we decided to try and convince Sofia to visit Santa. When we saw him earlier, she kept asking "Where is the rest of his face?" so I think his big beard was a little scary. Anyway, we arrived in front of Santa and she was perfectly happy to sit on Mrs. Claus' lap and talk to Santa. In fact, she was going on and on about her little toy train and she was sure to tell Santa that she wants a train set for Christmas. Finally, we got her off Mrs. Claus' lap so other kids could visit with Santa. After a few minutes, she turned to me and said "He didn't give me a train set." so I had to explain that he won't bring her gifts until Christmas.....

We counted down together and the lights came on! It was beautiful! After lingering in the lights, we headed back to the casita and bed.

Sofia and the only Santa she wanted to see at first...


Santa and Mrs. Claus head off to the Plaza


The old fire truck


Uncle Steve, Papa and Sofia listen to Christmas carols


With Santa and Mrs. Claus. He's checking out her train


She then explains her train to Santa


A very happy visit! Sofia loved visiting Santa (especially being able to sit on Mrs. Claus' lap)


It was a VERY cold night, so Sofia used my cheeks to keep her hands warm (she wouldn't wear her gloves).


After the lights go on!


The Plaza from afar....