Legendary Santa 2013

We ventured off for our annual Legendary Santa visit last Sunday.  We left  bright and early, met Mimi where she was leaving her car, and zipped to Richmond.  The zipping definitely ended with the drive, as we were met with a line way out the door when we arrived at the Children's Museum of Richmond.  I was sure that for some reason there was a delay in opening, but as we got in line we could see a full line inside the building.  About 45 minutes or so into our cold wait outside, the kids and I went and rode Santa's sleigh.  We then decided to stay inside, and Mimi came in with us.  She and Avery found a place to play while I let Sam run in an empty area.  Sam and I then joined Avery in a variety of holiday houses.  We were thrilled to find that Ned had made it inside and was to the first turn of the line, so we got some snacks and joined him.  Things seemed to move faster then and spirits were better.

What a relief to be called in the room with Santa.  Ned left us in line so he could video, and I was left holding heavy Sam.  Old Santa as he calls himself is worth it though.

Finally we were able to chat with the Snow Queen, then Santa called Avery and Sam by name to come and sit on his lap.  The first few seconds were spent quieting Sam, who was fussing but not crying.  Finally he got Duckie loose from Santa's arm and was happy enough.  I was so proud of Avery, who talked to Santa even though it looks like she's trying to break away.

Our professional photo definitely captures the moment well.

It was a long morning, taking about 3 hours from start to finish, but I wouldn't have backed out for anything.  I saw the Legendary Santa every year until I was a senior in high school and plan for my two to do the same.  You can see our past visits here: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012.

After a crazy morning we decided to go ahead with our plans of lunch at Short Pump.  I did not consider that Sam would fall right to sleep at 12:30 and spent most of the ride trying to keep him awake.  We had a calm meal at California Pizza Kitchen then got in the car to come home.  Sam felt that his 15 minute cat nap was more than enough and stayed away the entire trip home.

We left Mimi at her car and headed straight to Mason's birthday party.  We will make sure we do nothing else on Santa day from now on.  The kids behaved and had fun, but it was good to get everyone home after our big day.