This Year's Response from Santa

Before I get to Santa's response to Sam's letter, if I haven't done so in years past (but I probably have) let me first preface it with a couple of comments (i.e., excuses).

First of all, Santa has no clue ahead of time what Sam is going to say. All of this is sprung on the poor old guy at the last minute.

And second of all, Santa has to write this response after he's hung chocolate ornaments and candy canes on the tree, put bows on the presents he's already wrapped - and then put them around the tree, stuff and re-hang the stockings, and then get rid of all the mess. 

By the time all of this is accomplished, it is WAY past Santa's semi-normal bedtime - and Santa's forehead is pretty much dragging along the floor as his head is about ready to explode. 

Then and only then, Santa can try to come up with a response to the hopes and fears that Sam has taken his considerable amount of time to so thoughtfully express. These are thoughts that cannot be minimized or brushed aside.

So, with all of that said, below is this year's response to Sam's letter to Santa (typed instead of posting a photo of the actual letter so that you, unlike Sam, won't have to deal with deciphering Santa's crappy handwriting)...

 12/25/21

Dear Sam,

 Thanks as always for your lovely note. I look forward to it every year.

It sounds like this one has been a busy one for you. No wonder time goes by so quickly. It always seems to fly by when you're busy. Whether it goes by fast or slow, it's important to appreciate every minute- and it sounds like you do.

I'm sorry you lost someone close to you.Though I know it isn't the same, the people we love, the people we are close to, are always with us. They are a part of us and we carry them, and their love, with us forever. Nothing can change that.

I'm so glad you know so many nice people - friends you go Trick-or-Treating with, friends you hang out with, and friends you work with. How lucky you are! And they are very lucky to know you!

And yes, like you, I will be very glad when COVID is gone. But until then, I am glad you are taking care of yourself -  and being considerate of those around you by wearing a mask. I wish everyone was as thoughtful as you. Anyway, have a great Christmas.

Love, Santa