Santa's Workshop

As the youngest child of six kids, I picked up a lot of things from my older siblings. I found myself following in the footsteps of my older siblings, even if it cost me (a finger ;), including things like paper routes, swim team, going to the same college, etc. But it took on other forms as well, like picking up the family traditions that the older ones grew out of...especially at Christmas. I was the last one to still deliver homemade coffeecakes and carmels to the neighbors. I still played various roles in the family play of the nativity scene. And the one tradition that seemed to stick the longest, yes, into my 30s...some traditions never die...was writing to Santa. The best part of Christmas is the kids, so as my family expanded to nieces and nephews, I guess I held onto the letter-writing as one last way to still be a kid at Christmas.

So in my childhood fantasy, I could never explain the magical mountain of presents in the living room. Now, I get to see the real thing--Santa's Workshop. I get to see Santa at work and be one of the elves hard at work--especially at the time of shipment. Let me tell you, it's no magic, it's hard work and long hours but nonetheless, just as rewarding.

Christmas Eve or not, Santa never sleeps.