Every night the Elf goes back to the North Pole to fill in Santa on the day's happenings, and every morning he comes back ... to a new hiding place. The threat of the Elf's tattling to Santa kept Ryan in check, and both kids were beyond thrilled to search-and-find him every morning. By the time Christmas arrived, both kids were in a full on frenzy.
The night before we set out cookies and Pineapple juice for Santa (as Brooke insisted Santa would want juice and pineapple was the only thing in the fridge). The reindeer were left some carrots. We got the kids in bed early, did some last minute prepping, and went to bed too.
The next morning I expected Brooke up bright n' early ... but instead, she slept in. Both kids strolled out of bed later than normal and ran downstairs. They screamed and yelled with delight at the fact Santa had come. All the presents were opened in minutes at which point Brooke exclaimed "that's it?"
I think all the hype, in addition to the barrage of gifts prior to Christmas, made the whole event slightly anti-climactic. The kids got bikes, but seemed generally unimpressed. What really got them excited? 1) The few pieces of candy in their stocking 2) new coloring books and crayons and 3) the fact that it started snowing. Figures :)
After unwrapping presents and having our breakfasts, we went to Brooke & Ryan's Great Grandma's house. The kids spent time watching squirrels and throwing wrapping paper. Brooke again expressed her displeasure in the quantity of gifts she received and noted that other kids seemed to have more presents than her. I didn't think Christmas was so complicated for a four-year-old girl ... but then sometimes I forget she isnt exactly your typical four-year-old ;) Next year is sure to add an extra level of pressure for us, as we know realize the level of expectations we are dealing with. We can spend the next year trying to knock her down a peg, but I'm guessing its not going to be enough to tame the princess-beast.
