I watched tonight with a slight twinkle in my eye as my 10 year old daughter readied the living room for Santa. We do this every year. We move the fireplace screen and pick up all the pillows... remove any obstacles that may be in Santa's way. This year it was the snoring Santa and Rudolph the singing reindeer. She made daddy promise to turn off the pilot light on the gas logs so Santa didn't get burned. This year has been tough. She has had to fight for what she believes in. Starting from one month into school she came home with stories of children who did not believe in Santa trying to spread their lies to her. "Mom! They are so stupid! They say that the parents are Santa. How can that be? You're asleep too!"
Her furvor is admirable. Her loyalty is inspiring. It also means that I've done really good at my job. I have already labeled this the best Christmas we will ever have. The boys finally get it. They love Santa and presents and yet they know that it's baby Jesus' birthday. Addison is still a believer... Even if she's hanging on by her finger tips. This may be the only Christmas where these two things coincide. And so I've declared this year the best! I can't wait for tomorrow. It's as exciting for me as it is for them. I think Christmas loses its magic when you stop believing in Santa but returns when you have your own children and get to BE Santa. I'm just happy this season. Happy to have my kids. Happy to have my husband home and helping. Just happy.
