On December 15th, this year's Shawnigan Staff Children's Christmas Party was held in the upper dining hall for more than 30 children between the ages of 8 months and 9 years old. With the anticipated arrival of  Santa Claus, the children were kept busy building and decorating gingerbread houses and playing festive games – spin the nose on Rudolf, pin the star on the Christmas tree, and colouring.

Then, Santa was seen through the window and the room was filled with squeals of joy and a buzz of excitement. Santa reached into his red bag of goodies and pulled out a gift for each child. Most of the children enjoyed talking to Santa – some were a little shy, some were a little scared, and a few babes even slept.

Mrs. Robertson and her crew of Prefect elves organized another wonderfully festive party; one that is treasured and remembered by the children and the parents alike. Special thanks to our culinary staff for providing special treats and, of course, thanks to that jolly old elf, Santa Claus, for taking time out to visit us.

– Photos and story by Sarah Doyle