Cora vs. Santa 2009 Edition

You may recall this unfortunate incident from last Christmas.  I think it is safe to say that I am one of the only 30-something people who has had her picture taken with Santa.  This year, I was determined to do it up right. No cheap polyester Santa suit. No draped sheets as a backdrop.  No pet food one aisle over.  This year, we're going to the mall!

I did my research.  No way were we going to repeat last year's trauma.  So, I did a quick survey of the locals to find out which mall has the best Santa.  The results were overwhelmingly (that may be an exaggeration), umm, tied.  So, with no clear cut winner, I did what every other lazy person would do and picked the mall closest to me.  I can tell you, I was not disappointed by the set up.  Santa in a fancy suit with a REAL beard!  Beautiful tree with a fireplace.  Real photographers accustomed to young children.  Score!  Here is the result of my research and careful planning.

As you can see, Cora LOVED it.  In fact, the photographers couldn't get over how sweet and compliant she was.  I know they wish every child was as easy to photograph as Cora.  (I may be exaggerating a little. . .or a lot!)

As we were standing in line waiting, I kept pointing to Santa and talking about Santa.  We watched other kids get photos taken.  And, I asked Cora if she wanted to get her picture taken.  She vigorously shook her head no.  But, I was sure that she didn't understand what I was saying. . .

Turns out she did.  As we walked toward him, she proceeded to tighten her death grip on my scarf.  As I lowered her into Santa's arms, she screamed (SCREAMED) and the water works started.  They quickly snapped a picture, so I could rescue sweet baby girl from the terrifying man.  (I don't think Santa was too upset to let her go, either.)  $25 later, we have a memory to last a lifetime.  Wonder how much the therapy bill is going to be?!