Friday, December 21, 2012

Growing Up

I think I posted a pic of this Santa a couple of years ago. He stands on my neighbor's porch. I call him Drug Dealer Santa since he really reminds me of a drug dealer in Brooklyn who would dress as Santa to handle the holiday pot rush and confuse the police.

But I digress.


My neighbor's porch faces the front of our house. I'll never forget how excited Hope was on her 2nd Christmas to see him there. She stood at the window forever just gazing at him. We always said good morning and good night to him. We waved as we passed him in the car and we'd often walk over to see him.

Fast forward to the ripe old age of 3 1/2.

I've been waving and greeting the old guy as always. Hope hasn't said much. Finally the other night she looked at me with all the sweet, patient kindness she possesses and said ...

"Oh Nana, he's not real. Didn't anyone tell you?"



She does believe in THE Santa.

26 comments:

DJan said...

Out of the mouths of babes... I watched Parenthood last week and the existence of Santa was one of the themes. You reminded me of it. Best wishes to you and Hope for a wonderful holiday season!!

Sallie (FullTime-Life) said...

Awwww! How sweet and patient Hope is.

I remember (Lord help us, half a century ago) explaining to our toddlers about why there were Santas in the malls and on every corner. "Santa's helpers". Growing up gradually. But is it really time already for that to happen to Hope?

kenju said...

She's a smart cookie!! lol

Hilary said...

I love that little girl. How wise and tender. Please give her a big hug for me.

jaycoles@gmail.com said...

Someday she will know that he IS real. I love the story and picture. Merry Christmas. Hugs, j

Unknown said...

Good for Hope to recognize the imitators, but a bit heartbreaking too...isn't it?

Sylvia K said...

I had the same "out of the mouths of babes" thought as I read your post today! What a joy she is to you and me as well! Big Christmas hugs to both of you!!

Akelamalu said...

Hope is a smart cookie! :)

Mike said...

So now you have to get the neighbor to dress up as Santa and be stading there when you drive by and he can wave at Hope.

Kay L. Davies said...

Oh, she's so precious. And so patient with you, Dianne. She's at a wonderful age.
Hugs for both of you, and warmest holiday wishes,
K

Reena said...

So precious! Love these years of our little ones!

Reb said...

She is such a doll. I am glad she knows the difference and still believes in the REAL Santa.

OldLady Of The Hills said...

LOL, LOL...HOPE is a sketch! I love it---But I must say, he is one great Not-Real Santa!!! I don't think I've ever seen one as nice as that in someone's private home...!

LL Cool Joe said...

Aww that's the end of an era! Sweet but kinda sad too. So what did you say back to Hope? :D

Happy Elf Mom (Christine) said...

Cute!!!!

ellen abbott said...

3 - 4 is my favorite age.

Cherie said...

Sweet. There's so many wise kids. "I know you're not the real Santa, but I know that you work for him. " :)

Linda Reeder said...

still say some funny things, but not nearly as cute as when they were three. I'm glad you are treasuring every moment, and documenting a few to share with us.

Linda said...

You can't fight the logic of a child or the progression of the years, huh?

I'm glad that Hope still believes in THE Santa though and that she'll always hold a part of THE Santa in her heart no matter how old she gets!

Anonymous said...
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EG CameraGirl said...

Hope is wonderful! Thank you, Nana, for sharing her on your blog. :)

Pat said...

She is adorable! I love when children act like the adult in a situation! Too funny!

Jeff B said...

Ha! That's pretty cute.

Daryl said...

she is one smart sweet cookie!

Rambling Woods said...

LOL..I love that....

Lowell said...

She learned you somethin'! How cute is that?

Have a wonderful holiday! May the real Santa be real good to you all!