Bawlin’ Babes and Ho-Ho-Ho

12/21/17 Northgate Mall Santa

Last Thursday, Santa was having a busy afternoon at Northgate Mall. When I arrived, he was just getting back from his break, and at least a dozen families were waiting in line for his return.

If Santa looks a little bedraggled, it’s because the clients he had right before the girl in this sketch put him through the wringer. The elder sister was an old pro at this Santa business, so she sat patiently next to him. But despite much cajoling from dad, baby sister would not have anything to do with this bearded man. She let out some ear-busting howls on Santa’s lap as the photographer snapped away. I admire this particular Santa, who always appears jolly and friendly, no matter who’s screaming in his ear (this is my fourth year sketching him). As usual, the holidays are such a joyous time of year for toddlers.  

Merry Christmas, and may your holidays be joyous, too!

Edited 12/25: It turns out that the Santa photo tradition began right here in Seattle in the 1940s! Who knew?