Yes Virginia, There IS a Santa Claus

One of my favorite Christmas memories occurred every year when my brother and I were children. Some very good friends (old enough to be our grandparents) invited us to the beautiful and unique log house over looking the bay near Christmas. As we drove up to the gate, Santa Claus would meet us and let us in.

We were treated to wonderful smells of cinnamon and cloves, apple cider and a delicious dinner. Santa would eat with us.

As soon as the dishes were cleared away, we would move into the living room with the huge picture window and gather around the Christmas tree. My brother and I eyed the wonderful assortment of Christmas presents snuggled under the tree and tried our best to be patient.

The adults would talk, sometimes interrupting their conversation to watch a Washington State Ferry pass by or a string of sailboats float past all lit up for Christmas.

Eventually the gifts were handed out by Santa Claus, who would eventually just disappear. Always, the gifts of our dreams were given to us at that house - a long awaited stuffed giraffe, a "just perfect" dress; a boom box; an heirloom set of silver. The types of presents changed as my brother and I grew older.

Today, my parents still make the trek at Christmas time to visit these life long friends, though now the visits take place in a retirement community. But never will we forget that wonderful log house, the acres of land it sat on, and the perfect view of the bay with the ferry and the sailboats. Never will I forget the delight and joy of Christmas as Santa Claus carefully carried a homemade present to the hostess of the house. Yes Virginia, There IS a Santa Claus.