Catherine-Ann / Pure-Grace

Dec. 4, 2021

OUR FIRST SANTA & NANA CLAUS VISIT THIS YEAR

Friday, Dec. 3, 2021 11:00 pm

When I opened the door to our bedroom, the beautiful shock of our red & white 'Claus' attire on the bed that Larry laid out, stirred up so much emotion. 1st the anticipation & wonder of this special time of year, & excitement of sharing joy with children. Then, "Wow' this is such a special and normal thing to do, erasing the sadness of Covid & cancer for a one hour visit." And for a bit of a blip, "Can I do it? Will I have the strength to do it for long?"

  We received a call from a previous neighbour who moved to a town-house complex not far from here. They have 2 beautiful girls, whom we always reminded that they were the 'joy & sunshine' of our condo. They hosted a Christmas party in their beautiful clubhouse, with a huge balcony complete with lit fireplace. That's where we visited. There were about 12 girls, from 6 to 12 yrs. old. They really put Santa through his paces with many questions about where his reindeer were, what town was he born in, and could they be his helpers for the rest of the month. Santa's helper was a very enthusiastic & grateful 8 year old. Do you ever wonder, what such a simple gesture as inviting a child to attach the little goodie bags to Santa's fishing pole, for him to give out, might do for her. In a time where 'A picture with Santa' at the mall is a non-event or definitely not the friendly cuddle of the past, the memory of being a big help to Santa in such a unique way, is the one 'picture with Santa' that may mean the most, and when she felt most special.

   It's tricky business with Covid safety. Being outside is the best, and really only way, especially for me. My system is still very compromised and I can't let my guard down. Santa can certainly manage without me, and even tonight, I was prepared to go to the car, if my back wouldn't hold out. However, smiling, being bubbly, interpreting Santa's jokes that didn't make sense and of course witnessing the joy that not only the children but also their parents expressed, all gave me a boost that sustained me throughout the visit. Crawling out of the car when we got home was worth it. Tomorrow, will be a quiet day. Thinking that I may get some Christmas cookies started.

Hoping your way of preparing for Christmas has more meaning than ever this year. Thinking, especially of the thousands of families/people suffering through the tragedy of the floods & slides, certainly helps to shine a light on things that truly have meaning from the perspective of human goodness, compassion, generosity and love. God bless you. xoxo