Santa Claus Came Back to Town

Christmas was oh so fun this year. I wrapped, decorated and just generally enjoyed the preparation and hustle and bustle of the holiday. We had our tree in the den, right next to the tv and it was so nice to have it in the main living area. In the old house, it was always in the front window so we only saw it when we walked to the front door or made a pass through the living room. I like the new place for it much better.

Santa, however, did not have such a good Christmas this year. After we unwrapped all our presents and had enjoyed a good breakfast followed by one or two (or perhaps more!) delicious Christmas cookies, C sighed and said "I love all my presents. I guess Santa gave me a paper journal and a new pen to write with so that's why I didn't get the Password Journal."
The Password Journal.
The one and only consistent item she had asked for for the past three months. Santa didn't deliver. Or, was it that Santa forgot about it? Or that he forgot where he put it? Oh no, that couldn't be it. I was alternatively concerned and dismayed by the lack of Password Journal under the tree (and no where else to be found in the house.)
Two days after Christmas, Hubster and I were lying in bed when an over-excited C bound into the room. I could only grasp parts of what she said in her excited gibberish. " Santa....came.....for me.....letter.....present....forgot....remembered....so coooool!!" 
Turns out Santa did get C the Password Journal and he even delivered it.  C quickly declared Santa as the best ever and she has consistently played with her electronic journal since then.

Here's the letter that came with her gift:

Dear C,
I hope you liked all the presents I brought and that you had a Merry Christmas in your new home! I had a very busy night on Dec. 24th, I was really tired when I finally got back home to the North Pole. Mrs. Claus had some hot cocoa and my slippers all ready for me. I was very happy to sit down and relax!

After I got home, the elves were busy putting the reindeer in the shed and putting the sleigh away. And guess what?! They found something was left inside. I couldn’t believe it! I knew I was in a hurry when I got to Solon because I was running a little behind (and Santa does not like to be late!) but I didn’t think that I’d be in such a hurry that I’d forget to leave one of your presents! I am so sorry that I didn’t see it. And, I know this was something you really wanted too.

Thank you for your letter that you left with the yummy cookies. You asked me a couple questions so I thought I’d try and answer them. I don’t normally do this but because you’re a special girl, I thought I would make an exception this year.

The reindeer live a long time. See, they’re magical just like me! It just seems like they’ve always been here with me, I don’t know what I’d do without them.

I don’t really remember how old I am! Hard to believe, I know, but magical folk just don’t pay attention to their age once they get older. I feel very young at heart because I get to do my most favorite job in the whole world, making children happy! I wish everyone could feel the magic and joy of Christmas all year round in their hearts. I especially like it when I see children and their families worship in church and remember the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Jesus. I sing right along with folks when I hear them singing in church. My favorite Christmas songs are Joy to the World and Silent Night. They’re just beautiful!

Have fun with all your presents. Keep being good for your Mom and Dad. Remember to be nice to your brother.

Love,
Santa