Children and their parents packed the San Juan Island Grange Saturday for “Christmas Island,” three hours of Christmas cookies, face painting, picture coloring, and pictures with St. Nick.

Twelve volunteers help Santa Claus put on the event each year.

A fire warmed the room as children waited patiently to share their Christmas wishes with Santa. Each child received a teddy bear.

Photographer Mark Gardner took photos of each child with Santa; the photos will be mailed for free to each parent.

By the way, Santa is checking his e-mail and he’d like to hear from you. He can be reached at Santa@rockisland.com.