Santa, Rides, and Gingerbread Houses, Oh My!

Christmas Eve came and I hadn't had a chance to take the girls to visit Santa. We assumed the mall would be crazy the day before Christmas, but we decided to brave it. Turns out, it was perfect timing. There was no line to see Santa, and he was able to take his time with the girls. Eloise was enthralled by him while Penny was classically unsure.

The girls also rode on the Merry-Go-Round. Penny was too nervous to ride the horse by herself so Stephanie rode with her. 

Eloise was fearless and only complained when the ride stopped.

The little moving cars were a big hit too, with everyone!

But the highlight, was the animal riders, which are big mechanical animals that you can rent and drive around the mall. Penny could power the little dog by herself, but did not understand the concept of steering. 

We let both girls ride together and Eloise squealed with delight the entire time.

If Eloise could talk, I am pretty sure she would confirm that our mall trip was the highlight of our time in Utah. It was one of those experiences couldn't have come together more perfectly if we had planned it.

If you haven't figured it out by now, Penny is my little Nervous Nelly. Her idea of a good time is quietly playing with toys. She can do without heights, loud noises, crowds, and surprises--anything that is outside of her control. She was happiest when we found Taylor's old toy kitchen stuff to play with. 

Decorating gingerbread houses was another favorite for nervous Pen.

It's one of my favorites too, Penny!