It's in the details

Ethan had his nursery Christmas party today.

The honoured guest was Father Christmas and Hannah decided that, because Ethan might be a little bit nervous, she would be there in a supporting capacity.

We had the conversation that explained that the man in the big red suit wouldn't be expecting Hannah and therefore wouldn't be prepared with a gift. I also explained that she could only stay for the Santa visit and not for the subsequent party.

She was still keen to play caring big sister and she did a fantastic job, holding her little brother's hand and helping him with the stress of a dark grotto and big bloke hiding behind lots of facial hair and red, fur trimmed clothing.

We left at the same time as another parent, Nikki, and as we walked she asked "So who was Santa?"

I looked at Hannah and then at Nikki. The last look was a look of conspiracy.

I explained, more to Hannah than Nikki, that it was so difficult to tell whether one was seeing the big FC or whether it was one of his helpers.

Nikki added that although Santa is a bit magical he still can't be everywhere so his helpers help out by turning up when he can't make it.

Hannah thought that one of the Santas that she'd seen this year was a helper, because the first one, at Kirsty's house hadn't worn glasses but the one at nursery had worn glasses.

I often don't even notice when my friends wear glasses, let alone complete strangers. It's all in the details.