Dear Santa

I realize that I am a little late on the draw here, but this was my letter to Santa this year! (Yes, I am 26 and still faithfully write him every Christmas Eve.) Lest you wonder, I did have a good Christmas this year, though it was a very different experience for me. I had grown quite comfortable in the traditions I have been participating in for the last 20+ years, and though this past year was different, I did enjoy it! It also brought a new appreciation for magic into my life, which is what this letter talks about. Enjoy!

Dear Santa,

I know in years past our letters to you have gotten more and more snarky. Perhaps you will find this year to be a refreshing change from that (though I can't vouch for my sassy siblings...)

This year, Santa, I find myself in a house full of non-believers. I am sure you know this from your year of watching and making lists, and you probably double check the turbine engine so you don't crash as you get closer to this house each year, but somehow it still catches me off guard. Last night, at some ridiculous hour, someone asked what the plan for Christmas was and the answer was "sleeping in," and "Santa's not real, no need to rush." (Sorry Santa, I know that's unpleasant to hear.)

Anyway, I found that view super depressing and found myself singing Amy Grant's song, The Night Before Christmas, in my head: "You don't have to be a child to love the mystery...The heart of this Christmas is in you and me." Santa, this Christmas I am thankful for the magic, mystery, generosity, fun, excitement, and belief you have brought to my life. I am thankful to have spent the majority of my Christmases with believers of magic and mystery, those that keep the heart of Christmas with them.

If my gratitude for these believers isn't a good enough indicator, I should probably tell you that these people have been good this year. In fact, they are all living up to your example of generosity and kindness. I hope you have brought them good things...it's okay if you skipped out on the corvette and other such extravagant gifts though (sorry Dad and Connor). I should also tell you that even though the house I am in is full of non-believers, that they have been good this year too.

Thanks again Santa for everything you have done for this child. Merry Christmas! Travel safely with the reindeer. Tell my family hello for me!

Love,

Trisa