I've always been a big fan of the Christmas season. First and foremost, it is about the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. But I do still remember my thoughts as a young child and the magic and mystery of Santa Claus. I never thought one time that I might be him. NEVER, not once! For me, it all started with a request from my daughter, "Dad, I want you to be Bobbi's (her daughter) first Santa". It was an odd request, but I am always up for something new and love a good challenge.

 

I had a year to prepare. being a man of girth, some of the task was already done. I grew my hair and beard out... well by golly if I didn't look a lot like the man himself. I couldn't go anywhere without someone saying "Hey Santa", still can't today. Next I rented the suit. You know, I've always heard that there is something magical about that suit, but I never put much thought into it. Then you put it on... your voice deepens a little, you smile a little different, a twinkle appears in your eyes, you feel a little more jolly even though it weighs about 20 lbs. Oh... and the things that you witness while you wear it are the BEST. The jaw drop of an 8 year old when you round the corner. The excitement of anyone and everyone who you come in contact with. And then for me, the deal sealer, an 80 year old who lets go of her walker to literally run over to give you a hug. AMAZING !!!

​

That was it, I was hooked. I spent the next year learning everything I could about the man. The right mannerisms, the right things to say when a tough question or request is asked, the items you need to have with you to validate who you really are (such as a magical key) and then I even designed my own suit. Custom made out of rich suede just for me, by a true friend who fully understood the need for it to be PERFECT. Jingle bells on my sleeves that ring when I wave. Jingle bells on my boots that add a little music to my walk. Even the belt, is hand carved by someone who shared the dream too.

 

I promise you, when people see me, they know I am REAL.