Dear Santa

I haven’t written to the man in red every year, just when I felt an urgent need. This year has been full of twists and turns, so checking in on something dependable seemed like a really good way to tie up the year.

Dear Santa,

First of all, I just wanted to say thank you for all you do. I am sure that you must take advantage of the technology these days that didn’t exist way back when – I have wondered every time I use Microsoft Excel if that is how you keep track of the nice and naughty kids now. And you have global warming to worry about now too. Did the North Polar Bear have to move? Is your workshop safe where it is?

You know me, Santa, I was never one to ask for stuff. I always felt very fortunate to share my Christmas with loved ones. But I did wonder about people this year. Even though we had all this time at home to get closer and practice being kind, we seem to have gotten better instead at being divided. Being right became more important than doing the right thing.

I spent much of this year frustrated, trying to figure out why people would be so contrary. Why would we want to be judgemental and always pick sides for everything? Why would respect for others be so hard to give? It made me angry that I couldn’t understand it all, and then it made me sad.

I am grateful that I have found a way to look past all the anger and focus on finding my own way to fulfill my purpose in life. In looking back on your old letters to me, I remembered that is what you told me so long ago – it’s the giving that makes the magic.

I have put out a few shortbread and some vinertarta, as usual ( I haven’t forgotten the flavouring in the shortbread this year, so they taste pretty good). I also put out one of Martin’s chocolate marshmallows as a wee something special, and a garden carrot for Rudolph. I hope Mrs. Claus will have a nice warm toddy for you when you get home.

I guess I really just wanted to say thank you, Santa. Thanks for still being there, for still wearing your red suit and your smile, and sharing your “Ho ho ho”. It warms my soul to know that the bells still ring on the reindeer harnesses and that giving is still where it’s at.

Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!

‘‘Twas the Night Before Christmas…

In our house, Christmas was a big deal.

Decorating the tree was a major undertaking, usually requiring a few days to get everything tight. (Yes, we were a “one strand of tinsel at a time” kind of family.) Gifts were all thoughtful, and their wrapping was to be done with care. Everything was meant to be savoured.

Christmas Eve was inevitably busy, with last minute gifts to wrap amidst visiting friends. But once dinner was done, we settled in. Final preparations were near.

Every year of my childhood we read Clement C. Moore’s classic, once the cookies were set out for Santa.

Santa had to get a sample of each of the baked goods we’d made that year. I remember my mom explaining he probably wouldn’t have room to try them all, having to see everyone around the world.

I used to be able to recite all the verses… my favourite was

My mom usually read the story, but one year we were lucky enough to have Gramps there – he knew The Man in Red personally, so that was extra cool.

As soon as the story was finished, my brother and I would kiss our parents good night, and then it was off to bed to await the magic. I don’t remember dreams of sugar plums but I did sleep well.

I still get up in the morning to check and see what Santa sampled.

I hope there is magic in your heart too – you do know that Santa checks in anyway, even if you don’t put out cookies, right?

What are you serving Santa tonight?

When I was a kid, what went on the plate for Santa was always a big debate. My brother and I would each have our opinion and we both wanted to have the shortbread we decorated on the plate. Santa got milk at our house, not scotch (as I learned was the norm at some other houses). And it wasn’t until I was older that I learned of the custom of leaving a carrot for the reindeer. (Maybe that’s how my Chocolate Lab learned to like carrots – Santa fed her some!)

I would love to know what is the cherished thing for Santa to get at your house on Christmas Eve. Or, what is your favourite thing?
Please leave your comments.

I will be putting out some shortbread, a mincemeat kiss, some vinarterta, and a bit of choocolate-covered sponge toffee. Santa told me he likes single malt, so in the interest of maximizing my chances at a full stocking, I shall leave him a wee tipple.

Merry Christmas everyone!