Yes Virginia There Is A Santa Claus

For the last nine years I have done what most parents do and summoned the courage to take my child to see Santa at the local mall. This is a very big deal in a kid's life. So many decisions, what to wear, what to ask Santa for, and just how honest to be when the big question of whether you've been good or bad comes up.

We got to the mall earlier than expected and figured we'd sail through. No such luck. Turns out, Santa gets his dinner break from 5:45-6:45. Now I'm all for the big guy getting to chow down, or "feed the reindeer" as the party line goes, but if it were me, I'd try to have Santa's happy ass on his throne at the peak time that folks are coming home from work and schlepping their brood to the mall.

I do find some joy in the whole Santa visit. I like seeing the little kids who are so brave in line try to keep it together when lap time comes. It is kind of heart warming to see the innocence and wonder in their eyes. I also dig all the hot mommys that are in line. There is no wonder in the eyes of any adult. It's more of a glazed look usually associated with prisoners that just screams out..."I need a drink."

This Santa was excellent if the truth be told. He had on a custom suit with a flowing coat. His beard was real and quite impressive. His glasses were resting perfectly at the end of his nose, and I swear I saw a twinkle in his eye. He didn't rush any of the kids, even though I'm sure one toddler left Santa a special gift too. He was a pro. I almost started believing again. I guess that's why Santa is still such a big deal. Later...Brian