Santa sensory overload

Annie had an appointment this afternoon with the Man in Red. Northwest Special Families sponsors this annual event where children with disabilities can visit with Santa in an environment that is just right for them. We had an appointment for 2:20 PM--as opposed to standing in line for an hour at the mall--and Annie was able to have quiet, one-on-one time to discuss her Christmas list.

Now, I was unable to be there because of a class on disability advocacy that I had to attend, so Bill and Olivia volunteered to oversee this adventure. First, Bill took her to the (insanely crowded) mall to get her a new pair of black patent Mary Jane's. Then after Olivia helped her put on the Christmas dress from Aunt Susie, they were off to see Santa.

Now, I don't know what was on Annie's list--but I know it wasn't $10's or $20's--or real estate. But from what I can gather from the picture, what she really wanted was for Santa to shave, because 3 seconds after this was taken, she started retching. My guess is the beard probably brushed too close her face. Soft, fuzzy stuff anywhere near her face is major sensory overload. Olivia noticed the tell-tale signs first. "Dad, I think Annie's going to throw up." Bill immediately leapt into action, tweaking his back in the process. He grabbed Annie just in time to divert the explosion from Santa's velvet suit to his sweatshirt and jeans--and onto the carpet. The dress was pretty much drenched, too.

The people at Northwest Special Families were very kind and gracious, as was Santa. I'm thinking that I'll probably be elected to take her next year.

Jean

"His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,

and the beard of his chin was as white as the snow."

A Visit From St. Nicholas by Clement C. Moore