Yes, Santa does exist!
With Santa’s arrival just over the rooftop, I join my niece for the required visit to Santa Claus with her two sons. Strollers and diaper bags packed, we inch along the gold braided path. A Rudolph-themed village entices anxious children and our toes tap to the music of childhood.
“We are Santa’s elves…”I hum to the surround sound of plastic trees and shredded snowflakes.
Wes, a mere breath away from three-years old, waits in anticipation to present Santa with his wish list. The look on his face leaves no doubt – this is serious business.
Once on the red-velvet knee, Levi puckers-down and the magic dissolves into reindeer tears. Quick picture snap and exit baby until next year. A seasoned-pro, Santa remains cool like the frost on a Winter breeze.
Now one-on-one with the Man, Wes chats at length; engaged in intent conversation.
We shrug shoulders and wait. After all, a year’s a long time between good friends.
A nod of understanding, the two come to an agreement. With a tip of Santa’s hat, Wes waves goodbye; his list delivered now and safe in Santa’s keeping.
I bend down to kid-level and ask, “Did you tell Santa what you wanted for Christmas?”
An experienced Mom, I brace for the usual barrage of hot toys and must-haves.
With a twinkle he says, "I asked Santa to bring you a present."
Speechless, I hug Wes and embrace the innocence of childhood, letting it perfume my body with wonders old and new.
Pleased, I see Santa wink as he rubs his belly and lets out a cheerful jolly.
"Thanks," I whisper to the one-who-knows-all and then turn to Wes and say, "He already did."
And that is what Christmas is all about.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All
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Regis