Kid’s Christmas Party 2011

By SSM Leigh Taylor

 

On an early Saturday morning on 3 December 2011 the eerie silence of the south west hanger of the Strathcona building was shattered as over 350 parents with their children descended for the annual Kids Christmas party.

This year featured some of the same favourites like the hockey and soccer shoot out, but also had some new items such as the ‘Mad Hatter’ and the ‘Monster Head’ that were quickly tried out by many of the children as they arrived.

Other activities enjoyed by the children were a 60 feet long obstacle course (no injuries reported this year), and a bouncy castle for the wee little ones. The artful face painting was again orchestrated this year by St Albert Girl Guides (Pathfinder and Rangers). There was popcorn and cotton candy that everyone seemed to enjoy and no military event would be complete without the delicious and much appreciated Tim Horton’s coffee and hot chocolate that were very generously donated this year. The ever-popular petting zoo had a variety of animals to include very entertaining baby goats, quail and even a wallaby!

Some new attractions this year included a fire pit and wagon ride outside and since Santa was en route to visit, it was mandatory that there would be room for his reindeer to be displayed. With the arrival of Santa Claus the line began so each child could have a turn on old St Nick’s knee.

The kid’s whirlwind of activities were momentarily interrupted by the consumption of pizza, soft drinks and other goodies provides in the south east hanger. The day’s events wrapped up with a draw for some very exciting door prizes from our friends at Best Buy – geared mainly for the children.  One final run at the game tables, toss of the basketballs and a hug for the hilarious wallaby and it was time to go home. Many thanks to the hard working soldiers that worked behind the scenes to made this event a huge success!