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A Blonde's Perspective - Dear Santa,

By Jan Stadtherr


Remember me? I wrote to you about 10 years ago. It wasn’t to tell you what I wanted for Christmas as I have too much stuff already, but to share how our children, and now the grandchildren, look forward to your annual visit. 


Of course, we know that there are many people who portray you every holiday season. There’s no way you could be at every mall or other events many weeks before Christmas. It’s nice that you have helpers who dress like you and send you the many requests from children.

If I may ask, how old are you? My birthday theme song this year is “76 Trombones,” but I know you’re much older than I am.


You must be a descendant of Saint Nicholas. The true story of the Santa legend began with Nicholas, born during the third century in the village of the ancient Lycian city of Patara, a city on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. According to the Virginia Theological Seminary, his wealthy parents, who raised Nicholas to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic while he was still young. Obeying Jesus’ words to “sell what you own and give the money to the poor,” Nicholas used his entire inheritance to help the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He became known throughout the land for his generosity to those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.


Many of the Northern European countries adopted the legend of Saint Nicholas. The Dutch referred to him (you) as Sinterklaas and the immigrants brought the tradition to the new world during the 1600s. The image of you has been molded and morphed through the centuries especially in the 1860s when Clement Clarke Moore wrote the famous poem, “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” In 1931, commercialization by Cocoa Cola commissioned the current image of you with the red velvet suit covering your round belly and twinkling eyes looking over your full white beard.


As you are well aware, Santa, letters are being sent to you through the U.S. Postal Service. Since 1912, the USPS has sponsored Operation Santa where children can write to you at P.O. Box 123 Elf Road, North Pole 88888. Letters must be postmarked by December 9. Adults can adopt a letter and fulfill the child’s wishes by December 16. Readers can get more information on line at www.uspsoperationsanta.com.


When a child stops believing in you, it’s sad as the magic of Christmas comes to an end, and it’s the older siblings who usually commit the act. But now as a grandmother, I want to believe in you even more!


I want to thank you again for the magical years that you have brought to my family. I hope that magic continues for all children!


There are some people who think YOU are the meaning of Christmas. But you know the true meaning as my favorite figurine is of you kneeling by the Christ child in the manger. It brings a tear to the eye.


With your jolly manner, you help to spread the true meaning of this special holiday – a season of giving, sharing, caring, and His greatest gift – love.


Merry Christmas, Santa!


Love, Grandma Jan


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