Our trip- Day one- The Ride

We made a our yearly pilgrimage to the Great Smoky National Forest. Along the way we had a few stops. For three years now we have taken photos at the very same spot, The Smoky Falls(to record our children's growth). We enjoyed a picnic lunch here and shot a few photos. We found two Salamanders under a log. Most people do not know that The Great Smoky Nat'l Park is the Salamander Capital of the World! More Salamanders live here than any where else!

Next we were off to Cherokee to check into our hotel (just a one night stay). In order to get to Cherokee you have to travel down a road that passes Santa Land Theme Park. You cannot miss it, the children see 20 or more billboards for miles before the actual park is near. All three children decided that they wanted to stop (not in our plans). We have visited this park twice before and each time the children always enjoy it. How could a child not enjoy a Christmas Themed Park! After 10 minutes of begging (I decided not to voice my opinion- I would let Dad be the bad guy this time), Steve pulled into the parking lot. At first I thought he was going to give them a beating for screaming and begging but he didn't. He smiled at the kids and said let's go! We spent ALL afternoon there. It would not be a visit to Santa Land without seeing Santa. Nolan was first and he told Santa that he wants Hot Wheel Cars. Santa said, "I bet you like Legos too." Nolan said, "Yes". Santa said "It is my job to know what boys your age want....".

Next was Logan. Today she was not shy. Days like this scare me (last time we were here she told Santa that his breath was bad). Santa asked her what she wants and she said, "Animals".

Santa said, "Stuffed animals?".

Logan said, "NO! I WANT REAL ANIMALS."

Santa took a deep breath and said, "Well, this is something that I have to talk to your mom and dad about, how about a stuffed animal too?"

Logan said, "NO".

Santa said, "I know, I bet you like nice clothes."

Logan says NO again.

Santa asked her if she likes jewelry.

Logan replies no again.

Santa says- candy?

NO, and Logan says for the last time, "I want a real bunny, squirrel, zebra, and flying pony." Santa said ok and looked at me for help.

Next comes Cody and Santa laughed (probably since Cody is almost 12 and sitting on his lap). Santa was impressed with Cody's list. After our lovely talk with Santa we enjoyed the rest of our visit at the park and left for our hotel.