Passing the torch of terror

On Sunday, after 4 days of a 102 to 104.5 degree fever and 2 trips to the doctor, Harper and I finally left the house for some FUN! Sadly, upon arriving at Gymboree we were hit with the news that Hadley's FAVORITE Gymboree teacher, Miss Casey, had died in a car crash the night before. She would have turned 30 next week, and leaves behind an 8 year old son and fiance. Overcome by the sadness I felt in my heart and the sadness in the air at Gymboree, we decided to turn around and meet Daddy and Hadley at the mall to visit the jolliest of elves for some mood-lifting cheer.

As usual, during the hour+ wait in line, we discussed the game plan for when it was our turn. Hadley was adamant that she was not going to sit on Santa's lap, and likely wasn't going to talk directly to him either. Daddy was all set to be the messenger of the wish list until....

...without hesitation Hadley walked right up to Santa, hopped on his lap, and started chatting. Notice the surprise on Santa's face. Mommy and Daddy stood in shock for a moment or two as well!

"And I want a pink cat stuffed animal, Aurora and her prince and all the outfits."


"And when can I expect these gifts to be dropped off?"
I kid you not, that was asked. Santa politely reminded her that Christmas was another 14 days away still.

But before we could leave, we just had to do it....

And the passing of the torch of terror is complete.