Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Autism, Photo, Gatekeeper, Santa

After two days off, which, by the by, is not enough time off to recover from Thanksgiving weekend, Shortcake was at work bright and early at 7:30am to work the Autism event. She photo elfed, and saw two families. The first family had a 4 year old on the autism spectrum, an older 8 yr old brother, and a mom. (Ages are approximate.) The 4 year old was a little scared of Santa, but eventually sat on his mom's lap next to Santa while his brother sat on the other side. His mom was thrilled, and he went home happy with a plush Mickey. The brother was actually the inspiring one. He was so patient, and kind and good-natured with his brother. It was clear he felt responsible for taking care of him, helping Mom out. His mom asked Santa for peace for Christmas, and the brother seconded the sentiment. That's what made Shortcake tear up.

The second family had 1 son on the autism spectrum, probably in his teens. He shouted everything he said, and asked for a Care Bears DVD and Ice Age. He gave the biggest smile possible for the camera, and his parents were thrilled. When the Santa elf gave him the plush Mickey to take home, his mom burst into tears.

It was a good event.

Shortcake then proceeded to photo elf (getting many compliments from Santa on getting good pictures of babies. It helps when the parents are quiet, and the kids are only 6 months old. The younger the kid is, the less likely s/he is to be scared.). There were two school groups today. After lunch, she gatekept for awhile. There was one request for Good-Looking Santa, and otherwise it was a good time. Lots of Big Kid Tourists coming to see Santa. Then she Santa elfed for the end of the day, by which point in time, Shortcake's feet hurt, and she just wanted a nap.

The new break and lunch activity is crossword puzzles. A lot of the elves, along with some strawbosses, Santas and managers, get into it, and it's fun to figure it out.

Early bedtime tonight. 7:30am again on Wednesday for an Autism event.

P.S. Special shout-out to ELF's mom. Glad you're enjoying the stories. 24 days until Christmas!

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