by Jerome Hughes
ONE of Donegal’s newest arrivals has already had the pleasure of meeting Santa during a shopping trip in Letterkenny with his proud parents.
2-week-old, AJ Conaghan, was beaming as he visited the town’s Courtyard Shopping Centre, which is currently home to Carlin’s Christmas Grotto.
Little AJ, and his 7-year-old sister Kayleigh, even got to sit on Santa’s lap.
Proud mom, Laura, told Donegal News that AJ is the best possible Christmas gift.
“This is my favourite time of the year. It’s a time for family and excitement. Now it’s even more special.
“We decided to come in because Kayleigh wanted to get a photo with Santa and her new baby brother.”
It was just after midday when Laura and her family arrived at the shopping centre, as they attempted to avoid the crowds. Despite the chaos of the season, Laura humorously mentioned her last-minute gift struggle for her sister, making light of the challenge.
“I have one present left to get for my sister and that’s it.
“It is a very hectic time of the year and, with a new baby, it’s a bit more crazy this time around.
“I was due to have AJ on Christmas Eve but he decided to come four weeks early.”
Laura not only received an early Christmas gift but AJ also served as motivation to complete all the shopping in advance.
“We started two months ago as we had to be on the ball, waiting for AJ.
“I have to admit, I’ve been guilty of doing a lot of online shopping because it’s handy getting it delivered to your door. That being said, it’s not the same as coming into the shops and getting the atmosphere, the Christmas spirit, the music, and meeting people.”
Gabriela and Jamie Gallagher were also at the Courtyard Shopping Centre with their 7-year-old son, Taylor.
“Taylor was in a school play this morning and we then brought him here to meet Santa. He was so excited,” explained Gabriela.
Jamie told us how impressed he is with Letterkenny. Originally from Gaoth Dobhair, he praised the effort that shops have made to bring Christmas to life.
“It’s great to see so much happening here, especially for the children.”
Following a period of high inflation and interest rates, Jamie says it is costing him more to get ready for Christmas this year.
“Definitely, yes. Things are more expensive in the shops compared to online but in the shops you can look at it and see what you’re buying.
“You can then walk out the door with it. You know you have it and you’re not waiting on it.
“We’ve been shopping now for the past two weeks, buying small bits and pieces, so we’re pretty much finished now.
“This is a very special time of the year. It’s great to be with family and friends, all together,” concluded Jamie.
Kayleigh asked Santa for a Nintendo Switch and a surprise. She also requested a playmat for her baby brother, AJ.
Meanwhile, Taylor politely asked Santa to bring football cards, a Sonic the Hedgehog toy, and a Batcave. Santa promised to bring Kayleigh and Taylor their presents “so long as you do what mammy and daddy tells you.”
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