“Gotcha Lyra,” shouted Highstep as he tagged his friend and took off running. “Let’s see what speed you have. Try and get me.”

“With Summer approaching in the Arctic, who wouldn’t want to be outside?” Anya began as the two of us watched the elves running and playing games. “There are so many things to do.”

“Not only that, the elves get to smell fresh air, enjoy as many as 18 hours of sunlight, while watching flowers and plants begin to bloom.”

“Don’t forget about the exercise they get and the social aspects,” Anya added.

“Could not agree more. They learn how to work with each other, make friends, and share.”

“When you make your summer visits, do you notice the children enjoying the outdoors as much as the elves?”

I picked up a ball that rolled by my feet. Seeing Peppermint waving her hands, I threw it to her. “Unfortunately, not as much as I used to.”

Anya shifted on the bench. “You’re kidding, right?” she asked and gave me an odd look.

“I wish I was. But children don’t seem to be as enthusiastic about going outside to play.”

Just then Max ran over to us and crouched down behind the bench. When I looked over my shoulder to see what he was doing, he held his finger to his lips and whispered, “I’m playing hide and seek with Heart. Don’t tell her I’m here.”

I reached over, put my arm around Ms. Claus’s shoulder and gently pulled her towards me. “Let’s give Max a little extra cover,” I whispered to her.

“No problem,” Anya laughed. “Seems strange to think the children are not playing outside as much anymore. I wonder why?”

Running my fingers through my beard, I thought about Anya’s question. “Unfortunately, I don’t think there is a simple answer.”

Suddenly I jumped up to catch a frisbee that was headed toward Anya, and when I did, I heard Heart scream, “I see you Max. Now you need to count to ten and find me!”

“Wait a minute,” Max yelled and motioned Heart to come over to where Ms. Claus and I were sitting.

“What’s up?” The young elf grinned and added, “Too tired or am I too hard to find?”

“You aren’t going to believe this.” Max said when his friend arrived.  He then turned towards me and said, “Go ahead Santa tell her what you and Ms. Claus were discussing.”

“About the children?”

Max’s face became serious. “Yes,” he murmured.

“Well…. I was telling Ms. Claus how I started noticing children playing less, and like me, she was concerned.”

“I can’t believe that!” Heart shook her head. “Maybe if they had barely two months to be outside before the bitter cold weather and long days of darkness set in, they would always enjoy the outdoors.”

“Maybe so,” I replied and tousled her hair. “If I was to pick a reason, I’d have to say the electronics play a big part in it all.”

“I think you’re right Santa. We assemble a lot of PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch gaming systems,” Max replied.

“Not to mention,” Heart broke in, “that kids also use their Tablets and Cell Phones.”

“Hum, that could keep the children from going out to play,” Anya wondered aloud.

“That’s part of it. These games are habit forming and have taken away some of the children’s imagination to create things to do on their own.”

“Ms. Claus, watch this,” Lollipop interrupted as she came over toward the bench. Twirling a hula hoop around her waist, she added one to her neck and both arms. Keeping all of the hoops in motion, Lollipop began to sing a Christmas carol.

“That’s amazing,” Anya stated. “I’m lucky to just do one at a time.”

“Easy peasy, Ms. Claus,” shouted Heart and joined in on the song while Lollipop stopped and shared her hula hoops.

Ms. Claus and I applauded their performance as they walked away while twirling their hoops.

“So how do we get the children to go outside?” asked Max, his face becoming serious. “Playing with one another, especially outside is important.”

“First of all, I think parents should set limits on how much screen time children can have with their games, tablets, and phones,” I began. “And they should encourage them to do things outside.”

“But it has to be things they like. It’s not a good idea to force children to do something they don’t enjoy,” Anya insisted. “For instance, if they don’t like bike-riding, then don’t make them.”

“Absolutely,” I agreed. “

“YEAH,” Max yelled, “and parents should join in the fun, or invite some of their friends over to play outside with them.”

“I like your ideas, Max, and your concern about children. Maybe we should share this with all the elves.”

As the three of us watched a group of elves play ‘Red Light, Green Light’, Ms. Claus snapped her fingers and exclaimed, “You know what would be a good idea and fun?”

“I’m sure you’re about to tell me,” I said grinning.

Anya slapped my leg playfully. “You know that Job Jar we keep, where we put all the things that need to be done on a piece of paper and put them in the jar?”

“I do.”

“Well why couldn’t the parents sit down with their children and put different outdoor activities on a piece of paper and put them in the jar. If they can’t think of anything to do, they could just pull a piece of paper out of the jar.”

“I like that, Ms. Claus,” Max cried and jumped up from his seat. “You know, maybe when we talk about this with all the elves, they’ll come up with ideas. Then we can create little fun jars for kids and that will be a present from all of us at the North Pole.”

“Good idea,” I replied, but Max didn’t hear me as he yelled, “Wait till you hear this!” and ran to catch up with Heart and Lollipop.

Ms. Claus and I burst into laughter and headed back to our house. When we passed the sand box, where Elfanzo and Dewey were building a sand castle, I said, “Too bad we didn’t have any children of our own. We would have been great parents.”

“Look around Santa.” Squeezing my arm, Anya added, “Seems to me that we have done quite well helping to raise plenty of elves already.”

Notes From Santa

I hope you enjoyed today’s story. Stories are posted on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturday of each month, except December. Santa’s next story will be posted on Saturday June 3, 2023.  If you have any comments or if there is something you would like me to tell you about, please feel free to leave me a comment. Until the next time . . .

To read more stories about Santa & Children, please check out:

Just Part of the Family – August 26, 2019
Santa’s Waterpark Adventure – September 9, 2019
Sensitive Letters – November 18, 2019
Toys for Santa – December 9, 2019
Discussions At the Lego Table – December 16, 2019
The Art of Gift Giving – January 13, 2020
The White Feather – May 18, 2020
Patience – June 15, 2020
The Real Santa – August 17, 2020
The Key to Kindness – November 2, 2020
Changing Times – May 10, 2021
Random Acts of Kindness – September 20, 2021
Letter From Santa – January 1, 2022
Impossible Gifts – June 1, 2022
Building Confidence – February 4, 2023

Find Cincy Santa (@CincySanta) on:

Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Photo from Fun Attic

A soft kiss on my forehead woke me up. “What are you doing up so early?”

“It’s Mother’s Day, and I decided to do some of the work for the elves who are mothers so they can enjoy their day. I’m starting in the kitchen and giving Blanch the day off.”

“That’s so you!” Standing up, I gave her a hug. “Do you regret that we never had children of our own?”

“Not at all!” Anya responded and pushed my shoulders back to look at me. “I consider the children we get to visit every year, and the Elfkins we have here at the North Pole, as our children or grandchildren.”

I pulled her back into a hug. “I could not agree more. I love them like they were our children as well.”

“I need to hustle down to the kitchen so that the Elfin mothers have some free time,” Anya said and shut the door when she left.

I knew I needed to do something for the mothers at the North Pole and got dressed right away. When I arrived at Bernard’s office, I asked my head elf, “Did you know that today is Mother’s Day?”

“We need to do something,” the two of us responded together and broke into laughter.

“I was thinking maybe a party for them tonight in the recreation hall might work.”

Bernard nodded. “We could bring them up on the stage, one by one to honor them.”

“Good idea. We could maybe give them all some flowers.” I rubbed my beard then asked Bernard, “Should we make this a surprise?”

“I’m not sure if we could pull that off. The Elfin mothers aren’t as easy to surprise as you are.”

“What are you . . .” I started, then thinking about it, I just chuckled. “Ho, Ho, Ho, you’re so right.”

After making a list of things that needed to be done, Bernard agreed to work with some of the male elves to make the party happen. I headed to the kitchen to gather the snacks for the event.

I found Ms. Claus busy getting things ready for lunch. Walking up behind her, I gave my wife a hug.

“Thanks, dear. What a nice surprise.” When Anya turned to face me, she noticed the big smile on my face. “You want something don’t you?”

“Well, I was wondering….”

Putting her hands on her hips, Anya bellowed, “Stop right there. I don’t know what you want, but I have my hands full today helping out so the moms can enjoy their day.”

I explained what Bernard and I were planning which brought a smile to her face. “That’s a great idea Santa, but with the elves pitching in so that the moms are free, we are shorthanded. If you want cookies for the party,” she said pointing to Doheny’s recipe box, “you’ll need to bake them yourself.”

Though the first batch was tasteless and hard, I finally got the hang of baking cookies. “Not bad,” I mumbled after nibbling one.

“If you continue eating what you bake, Santa,” warned Anya, “you’ll never have enough cookies for tonight.”

“I hear you,” I mumbled and finished baking 12 batches of cookies without devouring another one. After boxing up my tasty treats, I took them over to the rec hall to check on the party preparations. When it appeared everything was set, I went home to get ready with Anya.

That evening I scanned the room packed with elves celebrating Mother’s Day. After mingling for a while, I got up on stage and addressed those in the room. “I don’t have to tell all of you, how much we depend on our mothers to help us get through every day. I’m glad we could get together to let them know how much they mean to us. When I call your name, each mom will come up on stage to be recognized for her accomplishments. First up is Doheny. I admit that after making all those cookies you’ve been enjoying tonight, I have even more appreciation for her baking skills.”

The room broke into loud laughter while Doheny made her way to the stage. One by one the moms followed and accepted their bouquet of flowers presented by Bernard.

“I am so glad to have been part of honoring all the mothers here at the North Pole,” I announced, “but there is one more we cannot leave out. She is not a mother, but you would never know that from the way she treats all of us. Ms. Claus, would you please join me?”

When Anya walked up the stage steps, I handed her the bouquet and announced, “You demonstrate all the wonderful qualities of being a North Pole mother. You make each day easier for us, and look out for everyone in the village. I’m not sure where we would be without you, Ms. Claus!”

The room broke out in applause and loud cheering when I gave Anya a kiss on the cheek. Her face grew as red as my rosy cheeks on Christmas. After giving me a huge hug, she addressed the elves. “I’m honored that you all think that much of me to be honored like this, especially when I know how hard all the mothers work each day to take care of their families.”

We both turned to walk off the stage, and over the roar of the elves, Anya whispered in my ear, “Thank you so much dear. This means the world to me. But if you ever embarrass me like this again, you will never see another cookie.”

I just smiled, put my arm around her shoulder, and responded, “It would be worth it, because I couldn’t do this without you.”

Notes From Santa

I hope you enjoyed today’s story. Stories are posted on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturday of each month, except December. Santa’s next story will be posted on Saturday May 20, 2023.  If you have any comments or if there is something you would like me to tell you about, please feel free to leave me a comment. Until the next time . . .

To read more about other North Pole surprises please check out

A Surprise for Santa – December 7, 2020
Surprise Dinner Guest – August 2, 2021
A Surprise for Bernard – March 1, 2021
Sad Santa – January 15, 2022
Wearing the Green – March 15, 2022

Find Cincy Santa (@CincySanta) on:

Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

After lunch Ms. Claus and I exited Christmas Village and headed up a small hill to the West. As we reached the top, Anya gave me a nudge. “Look Santa, there’s Nippy and Pete.”

Trudging toward our North Pole friends, Anya frowned. “Why are they talking to that snow pile between them?”

“Hmm?! It just moved, so I don’t think it’s a pile of snow. I haven’t seen my favorite snowman or polar bear for a few days. Nippy! Pete!” I yelled.

Hearing my call, our friends turned and waved. “Santa, Ms. Claus, how are you?” bellowed Pete.

Motioning for us to come over with his hockey stick arm, Nippy added, “Come meet our new friend.”

Getting closer I could see that the ‘pile of snow’ was actually an Artic Fox. “Well, who do we have here?”

“This is Onni,” Pete responded.

“Onni? Isn’t that a Finnish name, meaning ‘happiness’ or ‘luck’?” Anya asked.

The white fox nodded and faced Ms. Claus. “It is, and today I feel lucky to have found Polar Pete.”

Ms. Claus and I turned towards Pete. Anya grinned. “Pete, I’ve rarely known you to be a source of good luck.”

Nippy burst into laughter. “Good one Ms. Claus, but this time he is.”

“Well, you see, it seems Onni ventured further North than he should have,” began Pete. “I noticed that he was following me and eating my left overs. This went on for a few days.”

“When Pete stopped in his tracks and came towards me,” the white fox broke in, “I took off because the only polar bears I have ever come close to wanted to eat me. I was surprised when Pete called out and asked me to join him. I never guessed that one of the predators I feared the most would invite me to join him hunting. That’s when we became friends.”

“Both of us have good abilities to pick up scents over long distances. So, we started to find more food when we hunted together,” Pete added.

As Anya and our friends continued talking, I moved behind Pete’s new friend and reached out to touch his tail. When nothing happened, I shook it hoping to see the colors fly. It was so white, I wondered how his tail could make such beautiful blues, greens and reds.

Pete roared, “What are you doing Santa? That’s no way to treat our new friend!”

The Artic Fox stood up and asked, “You believe in the Revontulet (Fox Fire) myth, don’t you?”

Pulling my hand back, I stuttered, “I do . . . well I was just trying . . .”

“To see how Onni makes the beautiful lights in the sky,” Anya finished trying not to smile.

Chuckling, the Artic Fox trotted past me and waved his tail quickly back and forth on the snow.

Befuddled, I stared at Onni waiting for the brilliant colors to appear. “I’ve heard so many stories about how the Revontulet (Fox Fire) is caused by the Artic Fox who runs through the forest while his tail makes colorful sparks when hitting the ground.”

“I always loved that story when I was little,” said Onni. “Imagine if I could make sparks and watch them fly into the sky to create the Northern Lights. That would be so magical, Santa.”

I walked over and patted Onni on the head. “You and I certainly like mystical possibilities.”

Ms. Claus and our friends giggled. “Santa, you know that the Aurora Borealis is created by energized particles from the sun hitting the earth’s atmosphere,” Anya explained. “I can’t believe that you would entertain the idea of the Fox Fires.”

“I guess I’ve always thought the stories of the Fox Fire were interesting and fun. Somewhere in the back of my head, I wished they were true.”

Onni nodded. “So did I Santa. So did I.”

The sad tone to Onni’s voice made the laughter from the other four fade away. “Yes, that would be exciting,” Anya said, “but, you can’t believe everything you hear. People always make up stories as a way to explain things they don’t understand.”

“I know that,” I responded. “Yet it’s fun sometimes to let your imagination go and believe in something mysterious.”

“I agree,” Onni said. “And I promise you Santa, that if I ever find a fellow fox who can imitate the Northern Lights, I’ll be sure to introduce him to you!”

Laughter cut through the darkness that had settled in for the day. All of us stared into the heavens hoping for a little magical color to stream across the sky. Disappointed, we plodded down the hillside toward Christmas Village. “Well my friend,” I announced, “though you cannot create the Northern Lights, I bet you can amuse us with some interesting tales from your part of the Artic Circle.”

“I certainly can,” Onni chuckled, “as long as you share some of yours.”

“Story-telling around a bonfire with some of Judy’s famous hot chocolate. Great combination!” I shouted. “Looks like we’ll be creating some of our own magic tonight.”

Notes From Santa

I hope you enjoyed today’s story. Stories are posted on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturday of each month, except December. Santa’s next story will be posted on Saturday May 6, 2023.  If you have any comments or if there is something you would like me to tell you about, please feel free to leave me a comment. Until the next time . . .

To read more about Santa’s friends please check out

Santa’s Newest Friends – July 8 2019
Wiggle and Waddle Meet Polar Pete – July 15, 2019
A Visit From Jack Frost – January 20, 2020
The Lost Elves – February 3, 2020
Homesick Penguins – June 8, 2020
Nippy Falls Apart – March 8, 2021
Wiggle and Waddle Go Home – May 31, 2021
Missing Friends – July 1, 2022

Find Cincy Santa (@CincySanta) on:

Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Illustration by Pinterest  

Sitting at my desk, I leaned back and continued reading some letters from children. A knock on the door caused me to look up. “Good morning, Hanna,” I said greeting the elf. “I see you brought my morning snack.”

“I do have your hot cocoa, Santa,” the kitchen helper said and placed the steaming mug on my desk.

“Thank you.” I slipped my hands around the mug and searched for my plate of cookies. “Didn’t you forget something?”

Startled, Hanna shrugged her shoulders and gave me an odd look, “I’m not sure what you mean.”

“Where are my cookies?”

“Oh! I guess you didn’t hear. Doheny overslept this morning and is behind in her baking. I’m sure she will send some over as soon as they are ready.”

I shook my head and sighed. “No, I hadn’t heard that. You know I always have my morning hot chocolate with cookies. Would you bring me a couple after Doheny finishes with her baking?”

“I sure will,” the elf said and rushed out of my office.

When I finished my hot cocoa, I was still craving a cookie. Then I remembered that Bernard always kept some in his office and rushed out to see what he had.

When I entered my head elf’s office, I found him organizing the papers on his desk. “Morning Bernard.”

Looking up, he smiled. “Morning Santa. What can I do for you?”

“I guess you heard about Doheny oversleeping, so I was wondering, if I could have some of the cookies you keep stashed in your office.”

Bernard stopped and put his hands on his hips. “I’m sorry Santa. I just finished a meeting with my workshop supervisors, and they cleaned me out.”

“Thanks anyway,” I mumbled and left Bernard’s office.

Walking down the hallway, stroking my beard, I wondered who might have cookies. With a snap of my fingers, I recalled that Peppermint always kept some in the snack bar of the recreation hall.

When I arrived there, Peppermint was wiping off tables. “How are you today, Peppermint?” I asked.

Surprised, she gave me an odd stare. “Fine Santa. What brings you to the Rec Hall this morning?”

“I know you keep some cookies in the snack bar and wondered if I could have a couple.”

“Oh, I’m sorry Santa. You know we had that big party last night to celebrate Crayon Day, and the elves ate every one of them. I guess coloring makes elves hungry.”

Feeling dejected I walked out of the hall muttering, ‘OK. Thanks anyway.”

Still in search of cookies, I thought about the cookies Ms. Claus stored in a cannister behind her tea caddy at our house. “She won’t mind if I grab a couple,” I thought and continued down the hall.

When I entered our home, I saw Ms. Claus sitting in her chair reading. I slid past my wife and headed straight for the cookies. Taking the lid off the reindeer jar, I looked inside. “Where are our cookies?”

“Hello to you too?” Anya said with a sarcastic laugh. “I took them over to the mail room this morning and shared them with my staff.” Noticing the sad look on my face, she asked, “Is something wrong?”

“I can’t seem to find a cookie anywhere at the North Pole.”

“I don’t think that’s the end of the world. It’s getting close to lunch time, why don’t you go over to the kitchen and see if Doheny has any made yet.”

I shuffled out of our cottage and made my way toward the dining hall. Several elves were already seated as I checked for any sign of cookies.

“Are you looking for something?” Hanna asked.

“Yes! I know that Doheny had a late start this morning, but I thought she’d at least have cookies made by now.”

Tilting her head to the side, the kitchen elf responded, “I’m sorry Santa, but they’re not ready yet. However, the brownies should be finished by the time you eat your lunch. Want some?”

“That will work,” I replied with a smile and sat at my favorite table by the fireplace.

When I was just about to finish my lunch, Hanna came out of the kitchen with a large platter. All the elves shouted, “Brownies!” and ran towards her.

I rushed over with the elves and was shocked. “What are these?” I reached down and picked up a wooden letter ‘E.’ “This is not a brownie, it’s a Brown E. Is this some kind of joke?”

No sooner had I said that, than all the elves parted in the middle behind Hanna. There stood Doheny and Ms. Claus holding platters of cookies in both their hands. All the elves, and Anya, shouted “APRIL FOOLS!” and began laughing.

After a moment of being shocked, I shouted “Ho! Ho! Ho!” as my belly shook like a bowl full of Jelly. “I should have known. You got me!”

“Santa, you didn’t really think that anyone would deprive you of having your cookies, did you?” Doheny asked and grinned.

Grabbing a handful, Anya took my hand and led me to our table. “Did I ever tell you how much I enjoy it when the elves manage to fool you?”

Notes From Santa

I hope you enjoyed today’s story. Stories are posted on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturday of each month, except December. Santa’s next story will be posted on Saturday April 15, 2023.  If you have any comments or if there is something you would like me to tell you about, please feel free to leave me a comment. Until the next time . . .

To read more about Santa please check out

With A Little Help From My Friends – July 1, 2019
Santa’s Improved Sleigh – March 16, 2020
Pie Day – March 15, 2021
Is Santa Retiring – April 26, 2021
Sad Santa – January 15, 2022
Goofing Off – April 1, 2022
Where’s Santa – November 1, 2022

Find Cincy Santa (@CincySanta) on:

Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Illustration by TeePublic 

Ms. Claus and I had just arrived in the Elves Recreation Center when we noticed Lyra and Dewey playing cards.

“You must be the luckiest elf at the North Pole,” I heard Dewey sneer.

“It’s all skill,” Lyra snapped.

“Luck,” shouted Dewey.

When the discussion worsened into a yelling match, Anya and I stepped in. “Settle down!” I exclaimed. “Maybe both of you are right.”

“Are you saying that to make us happy?” Lyra demanded pushing her cards across the table.

“I would never do that.” After gathering the cards, I sat down with Ms. Claus. “First, can either of you tell me what skill really is?”

Both the elves looked at each other and shrugged their shoulders.

“Well, if you are skilled, that would mean you have a talent, ability, or expertise at something. Like Doheny and her baking skills.”

“You mean how she makes the absolute best cookies, pies, cakes and other stuff and hardly ever looks at a recipe?” Lyra asked.

“Yes, or how Highstep seems to be able to talk with the reindeer and knows all about them. Most elves at the North Pole can see how talented both of them are.”

All of us at the table nodded. “So tell me, what’s your talent Dewey, and Lyra what are you good at doing?” I asked.

When neither elf knew what to say, Anya looked at Lyra. “You must be good at that card game you were playing?”

“Sure. My grandma taught me all kinds of card games when I was little. I love playing, and I’ve gotten good at most of them.”

“How long have you been playing cards, Dewey?” I asked.

The elf had a quizzical look on his face. “About two years.”

“Hum, that’s a big difference. Lyra has been playing since she was little. I’d say she has become very skillful, wouldn’t you?”

Dewey rolled his eyes and sighed. “I get your point Santa. But… does that mean that you can only win or succeed if you are smart in what you do or have been doing it for many years?”

Lyra beamed with pride. “Told you so.”

Anya slipped her arm around Dewey. “Having skills is only part of winning a game.” My wife went over to the game cabinet and pulled out Scrabble. “I know most elves like words and word games,” she said and set up the board for Lyra and Dewey. “So let’s see how the two of you do in this game.”

Excited, the elves picked their letters. “I guess there’s a lesson in this somewhere,” Lyra mumbled sarcastically, “but I know I’m going to beat the pants off you Dewey.”

“We’ll see because I know what I’m doing,” he answered.

“You both do,” I said, “so play on.”

The elves went back and forth in creating words and earning points until Lyra stopped and shook her head. I noticed Anya looking over Lyra’s shoulder. “Hmm,” she murmured.

“Come on Lyra,” Dewey complained, “you’re taking too long. I got a great word.”

“Yeah,” Lyra grumbled. “At least you can play. I can’t. I don’t have any vowels.”

“That means you have to lose a turn. Then you can exchange all your letters,” explained Ms. Claus.

“Not fair,” moaned Lyra.

“Rules of the game,” I said. “Got to play fair.”

The game continued, but it was clearly Dewey who kept gaining more points. When it ended, the elf clapped his hands and started dancing around the table.

“I don’t know why you’re being such an idiot,” Lyra whined. “We’re both good at Scrabble. You were just lucky.”

“What did you say?” I asked quickly.

“Just luc….” Lyra put her hands over her mouth.

“Success even in a game is both skill and luck combined,” I explained. “Great success, however, like you see in Doheny and Highstep, is more talent, but luck plays into their achievements.”

“Does that mean they are equal?” Lyra asked.

“Not necessarily. Success can happen because someone has the necessary talent, puts in extra effort, or can be in the right place at the right time.”

“Or they are lucky!” Dewey exclaimed.

“Yes, or they are lucky,” I chuckled.

Anya slipped her arms across the shoulders of both elves and hugged them. “In Scrabble, both of you are talented in putting words together, but Dewey’s luck overcame both of your skills.”

“In the case of card games, Lyra has played longer than you, Dewey,” I explained. “She has the ability to remember cards that have been played and cards you have picked up. Luck plays into the game if Lyra picks up the right cards she needs. If your cards come up before hers, skill won’t matter, and you’ll win.”

“Remember,” Ms. Claus added, “it’s just a game, so relax and have fun.”

As Anya and I got up and started walking toward the door, she slipped her arm through mine. “Do you think they will see how all that applies to other things in life and not just games?”

“I’d say as soon as they start work tomorrow, it will hit them, and then knowing Lyra, it will be the topic of the day with every elf she sees. Then the North Pole will explode with opinions and arguments. But our elves are smart. Let them figure it out.”

Notes From Santa

I hope you enjoyed today’s story. Stories are posted on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturday of each month, except December. Santa’s next story will be posted on Saturday April 1, 2023. If you have any comments or if there is something you would like me to write about, please feel free to leave me a comment. Until the next time . . .

To read more about Lyra please check out

With A Little Help from My Friends – July 1, 2019
Santa’s Improved Sleigh – March 16, 2020
Pie Day – March 15, 2021
Is Santa Retiring – April 26, 2021
Sad Santa – January 15, 2022
Goofing Off – April 1, 2022
Lucky Charm – February 18, 2022

To read more about Lyra please check out

Magic Beans – June 21, 2021

Find Cincy Santa (@CincySanta) on:

Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

 

When Tempe and Bernard arrived, the three of us slipped into the observation room above the Bike and Scooter Workshop. “We have to be quiet and not let on that we are observing this group of young elves,” I whispered. “I want you to watch Elfanzo, a Whelp in training. He’s the one in green over there.”

We watched Wheelie, the manager, direct the elves on how to put together the scooters in front of them. Walking over to Elfanzo, he explained what he was doing wrong and tried to correct him.

“I know what I’m doing, I don’t need you to tell me.”

Shocked at Elfanzo’s outburst, we watched as he pulled away from Wheelie.

“If you want to be an elf at the North Pole, you will have to follow directions till you are capable of working on your own. Talking back is not tolerated,” Wheelie said, his voice stern.

“Whatever,” hissed Elfanzo who continued to ignore Wheelie’s suggestions. When the wheel fell off the scooter, Elfanzo threw down his wrench and stormed out the door with Wheelie following him.

Bernard turned to run after the two, but I stopped him. “Let Wheelie take care of the situation. You saw exactly what I wanted you to see, so let’s go to my office and discuss what to do with this young elf.”

While walking, I described a recent situation. “Yesterday Quentin saw Snickers joking that Elfanzo threw snowballs like a girl. Elfanzo overreacted and called Snickers names. Then he started pushing him around. Quentin broke up what could have become a nasty fight.”

When we arrived at my office, Bernard and Temperance took a seat by my desk. “How can we help,” replied the two in unison.

“Thanks.” I sighed and shoved a small stack of notes in front of them. “These are the complaints that I have received about Elfanzo since he arrived in January. What can we do? This young elf has shown talent, but his behavior is unacceptable.”

“He lacks good elf-like conduct,” Bernard remarked. “I don’t see that you have much choice, Santa, but to send him back home to Korvatunturi Mountain.”

Tempe shook her head. “Let’s not be hasty. Like Santa said, he has talent. When I was watching Elfanzo, I noticed how embarrassed he was when he couldn’t make things work the way he wanted.”

“Good observation Tempe. I’d say that Elfanzo hasn’t quite grown out of the Elfkin stage.” I thought about what the three of us had seen. “Maybe, if Wheelie had remained calm and asked him what was wrong and pointed out what Elfanzo had done right, things could have turned out differently.”

Both elves agreed. “It also appears that he is having a hard time getting along with the other elves,” Bernard pointed out and turned towards Tempe. “Maybe you could be his mentor, and work with him. I’ve seen how you can calm down elves who are arguing.”

“That’s an excellent idea, Bernard. What do you say Tempe?”

“Certainly, Santa. But before I do, can you talk with Wheelie and explain your plan?”

I agreed, and the next day Tempe returned to the observation room. At first Elfanzo, was fine. When he couldn’t attach the handle bars to the bike, he threw his wrench on the floor. Tempe noticed the other elves shaking their heads and whispering to one another.

Tempe trotted down the stairs and strolled towards Elfanzo. “How are things going?” she asked.

“Not good!” the Whelp elf responded and kicked the wall.

“You sound frustrated. What’s up?” Temperance sat on the stool by Elfanzo’s work station and waited.

The elf leaned back and crossed his arms on his chest. “I guess I thought this would be easier and more fun,” he muttered. “Instead, it seems to be a lot of pressure on new elves to be as good as those who were already here.”

“Many of us felt that way in the beginning, and I bet if you spent more time with the other elves who are new, you’d find a lot of them share the same feelings.”

Elfanzo blurted out, “Yeah, but I really don’t like putting bikes and scooters together!”

“That’s the beauty of the North Pole,” Tempe calmly responded. “Did you know we have 16 workshops and 17 departments? You have time to find your niche before June production begins.”

“You mean I don’t have to do this? I can try something else?”

“Of course. Let’s talk with Wheelie right now and let him know this workshop is not a good fit for you. He can then check to see who is looking for help and let you try another workshop.”

“Really?” Elfanzo clapped his hands. “When can I start? I think I’d like to work with stuffed animals.”

“Love your enthusiasm.” Temperance laughed and suggested that the two of them take a break.

Tempe led the young elf to the dining area, assuring him that this change could work. “But things are not always going to be perfect. Santa can’t have an elf getting mad at others for no reason. Controlling your mood and temper is necessary.”

Elfanzo dropped his head. “I wish I knew how to do that.”

“What if I could help you?”

The young elf looked surprised. “You would do that for me? Back in the workshop, you didn’t yell or try to tell me what to do. I liked that you were kind and patient.”

“I think you will find that most of Santa’s elves support one another. But I have to tell you, it may take a while for you to get over your anger issues.”

“Ho! Ho! Ho!” I called out and walked into the dining area and headed towards the two elves. “How’s this Whelp doing Temperance?” Turning to face Elfanzo, I smiled. “I admire your talents, but you know you have to learn patience and kindness to become a good elf. Then your talents will really shine.”

Elfanzo’s eyes grew large. “Thanks Santa. I’ll work hard, I promise. Tempe’s agreed to help me.”

“Elves helping elves. I like that.” Giving Elfanzo a pat on the back, I winked at Tempe and left.

“Do you think he saw me getting angry today?”

“Santa sees and knows everything that goes on at the North Pole,” Tempe explained.

Elfanzo rubbed his hands together and shook his head. “I have to really work on my anger issues.” Pausing, he grinned at Tempe. “But I have you to help me through these tough times!”

Tempe hugged Elfanzo and smiled. “One of these days, Santa will be delighted with the elf you will become. Until that happens, let’s enjoy our hot cocoa and make a plan.”

Notes From Santa

I hope you enjoyed today’s story. Stories are posted on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturday of each month, except December. Santa’s next story will be posted on Saturday March 18, 2023.  If you have any comments or if there is something you would like me to tell you about, please feel free to leave me a comment. Until the next time . . .

To read more about Temperance please check out

When Tempers Flare at the North Pole – August 12, 2019
Healing Hurt Feelings – August 10, 2020

Find Cincy Santa (@CincySanta) on:

Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Illustration from PNG ALL

“Did you hear if anyone found Lyra’s good luck charm?” Ms. Claus asked after completing our meeting in the mailroom.

“I don’t know. I’m heading over to Bernard’s office to see if there is any news about it.”

“That necklace and locket mean so much to Lyra,” Anya responded as she walked me to the door. “After all, her mother gave it to her when she was young. Lyra believes that everything she accomplishes is because of that charm.”

I hugged my wife and made my way to Bernard’s office. Since most of the elves did not believe in good luck charms, I worried that they would not take looking for it very seriously.

I found Bernard sitting at his desk, talking with Lyra, seated in front of him.

“Any news about the charm?” I asked as I sat in a chair next to Lyra.

“Not yet, but I have every workshop supervisor and department head looking for that necklace. Bernard shook his head. “No offense Lyra, but not everyone believes in charms.”

“True, but good luck charms give those who wear them a sense of confidence,” I responded in a calm voice. “They believe that positive things will happen if the object is worn or carried.”

Bernard folded his arms over his chest and glared at me. “OK. Tell me how they work.”

“The object itself doesn’t bring good luck.” I laughed and shook the bells on my boots. “See these? They came from my first sleigh. I don’t always wear them here at the North Pole. Yet when I travel, especially when I’m making my Christmas deliveries, I never leave without them.”

“Those bells are your good luck charm? Who knew?!” Bernard threw his head back and howled.

Lyra smiled and moved her chair closer to Bernard’s desk. “I bet you two didn’t know that Quentin has a lucky charm,” she whispered. “Whenever he draws the final design for a toy, he uses a special pen.”

I stared at Lyra. “Really? Quentin? Never thought he believed in lucky charms.”

Before Bernard could react, the three of us heard a knock.

When the door opened, Houser, the elf in charge of the warehouses, and Duffer, one of his workers, entered the office. Duffer put his hand in his pocket and when he took it back out, he dangled a chain and locket in the air.

“You found it!” Lyra rushed over, took the chain from the young elf, and gave him a big hug.

“I discovered it on the floor in the doll warehouse yesterday,” Duffer explained as his shoulders slumped forward. “The chain was broken, so that’s probably how you lost it.”

“I’m sure I can fix or replace the chain; it’s the locket that’s important to me,” Lyra responded as she danced around Bernard’s office with excitement.

“Duffer there is one thing I don’t understand,” I started as I stroked my beard. “If you found this yesterday, and you knew it was Lyra’s, why didn’t you give it back to her right away?”

Duffer shuffled and looked own at his feet. “Well Santa, you know that even when I mean well by doing something, it usually ends up going wrong. After I found Lyra’s good luck charm, I thought that maybe if it worked for her, it could work for me?”

“Duffer,” I said shaking my head, “lucky charms don’t function that way. Though they can be anything, it’s the special meaning the owner gives them that seems to create their magic.”

“You are so right, Santa,” Lyra shouted. “This locket has been passed down from mother to oldest daughter for generations. It contains a picture of my Great, Great, Great, Grandmother and has a very special meaning. I think that’s why it brings me luck. I feel like all my grandmothers are watching over me.”

Walking towards Duffer, she put her hand on his arm. “Why don’t I work with you for a couple days. Maybe my luck will rub off on you, or maybe I can help you find your own good luck charm.”

“Great!” Duffer responded with a smile while the two elves turned to leave the office.

“I hope you learned a lesson, Duffer,” I began and opened the door. “Next time you find something that belongs to someone else, return it right away.”

“No problem, Santa.”

I watched the two of them stroll down the hall and heard Duffer whisper, “Thanks Lyra. I sure could use some good luck. Maybe, you’ll become my lucky charm.” The two elves giggled and continued down the corridor.

I looked at Bernard and Houser. “I love the way elves help each other. I am so glad I chose to work with the Elves over the Gnomes and Dwarfs.”

“Let’s face it, Santa,” beamed Bernard. “We are the best thing that has happened to the North Pole in ages. “I’d say you lucked out when we joined your team.”

Notes From Santa

I hope you enjoyed today’s story. Stories are posted on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturday of each month, except December. Santa’s next story will be posted on Saturday March 4, 2023. If you have any comments or if there is something you would like me to write about, please feel free to leave me a comment. Until the next time . . .

To read more about Lyra please check out

With A Little Help from My Friends – July 1, 2019
Santa’s Improved Sleigh – March 16, 2020
Pie Day – March 15, 2021
Is Santa Retiring – April 26, 2021
Sad Santa – January 15, 2022
Goofing Off – April 1, 2022

Find Cincy Santa (@CincySanta) on:

Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Illustration from The Wallpaper Cave

After sipping some of my cocoa, I turned to look at Ms. Claus. “I was just wondering. How can I give confidence to all the children who seem to lack it the most?” I mused.

“Santa, is that even something you can do?” Ms. Claus asked as she set down her mug of tea.

“I know,” I began. Then looking at my wife I shook my head. “I can hear the lack of confidence or fear in some children. They think they are not good enough when I talk to them. That breaks my heart.”

“I’m not sure that confidence building falls into the giving of toys or clothes,” remarked Ms. Claus.

“Did you ever lack confidence?”

Anya stared at me and chuckled. “Lots of times Santa. I think it’s normal to doubt yourself when starting something new. Remember when you asked me to supervise the mail room?”

“I do. There was just not enough time to keep up with the increase in mail.”

“Well, at first, I was nervous. ‘You can do this. You’re one of the most organized people I know,’ you kept saying. Your confidence in me felt good. That’s when I looked for an assistant.”

“Sophia was a great choice.”

“Yes, she was. Together we developed a plan and made the elves part of the mailroom team. All of us shared our ideas and worries, and that improved the mailroom. Confidence grows when you not only believe in yourself but in the staff around you.”

“Hmm. That’s a great point,” I said as I wrote a quick note in my book.

“Check with some of your elves and see what they have to say about confidence. Maybe they…”

Before Anya could finish, I was out the door on my way to see Bernard.

Sitting at his desk, my head elf was going over production reports when I arrived. “Morning Santa. Have a seat. What can I do for you today?”

“I’m trying to find a way to help children who lack confidence,” I explained and sat by his desk. “I wondered if you ever had that problem?”

Bernard rubbed his chin as he thought. “Well … I remember when you asked me to be your head elf. I was not sure I could handle it.”

“You sure fooled me,” I laughed. “You’ve been great from the beginning.”

“I knew I could make toys,” Bernard explained, “but managing all the elves and workshops was scary. When you kept telling me how proud you were of me, I was inspired. That built up my confidence!”

“This has been very helpful,” I replied and again made notes in my book.

Thanking Bernard, I headed to the toy-making complex. My elf in charge of research and development, Fizzlepop, was working on a new toy. “Nice work,” I remarked looking over his shoulder, but how did you gain the confidence to do that?”

“That’s easy, Santa.” Turning to face me, he giggled. “Remember that first toy I designed and created?”

“HO! HO! HO!” I roared. “Of course! It blew up in front of us sending feathers and stuffing everywhere.”

Fizzlepop blushed. “Instead of yelling, you told me that I couldn’t get everything right all the time. ‘It’s just not elfin,’ you said. By encouraging me to learn from my mistakes, I did things better in the future. I’ve been following your advice ever since that day.”

“Interesting!” I stroked my beard and then described Fizzlepop’s experience in my notebook. “Thanks,” I said and hurried toward the kitchen.

Greeted by the aroma of baking cookies, I headed to the table where Doheny was rolling out dough. “You’re a bit early Santa,” she said laughing. “The first batch will not be finished for several minutes.”

I pulled up a stool to sit. “That’s good to know, but I really came by to ask you something.”

“You didn’t come in for a fresh cookie?”

“No,” I chuckled, “but I will accept one. Now tell me, how did you get to be such a good baker?”

“You know you don’t have to flatter me to get more than one cookie.” She giggled and set her rolling pin on the table. “You know my skills for baking are all due to you.”

“ME!?” I exclaimed. “Is it because I eat more of your cookies than anyone else?”

Doheny howled. “No, that’s not it,” she explained and wiped the flour from her hands. “Do you recall when I first started working in the kitchen?”

“I do. Blanch had you making soups, and as I remember, you weren’t very good at it.”

“I was horrible. I didn’t even eat what I made. You encouraged me to try different things, so I did. When I discovered my passion for baking, I finally gained the confidence to do my best.”

As I jotted some notes, Doheny took out the pan of cookies from the oven and slid two in front of me. “Thanks.” I put my notebook in my pocket, and grabbed the cookies. “They smell wonderful.”

“I know your weakness for cookies, Santa.” Doheny grinned as she shooed me out of her kitchen.

Returning to our living quarters, I read my notes and listed four ideas I thought would work.

Entering the living room, I found Ms. Claus reading and drinking tea in front of the fireplace. “I think I have a plan to encourage children to be confident,” I announced and took a seat beside her.

Setting her book aside, Anya clapped her hands and smiled. “That’s great, Santa. Let’s hear it.”

“The elves had plenty to say,” I remarked taking a seat next to my wife. “Though it’s common not to believe in yourself, it’s more challenging to build self-confidence. Here’s my plan.”

“I will remind boys and girls of something they did that made me proud.
I will encourage them to ask for and accept help from others.
I will tell them it’s okay to fail as long as they learn from their mistakes.
I will urge all children to find what makes them passionate which I believe can lead to self-assurance.”

“Way to go, Santa.” Anya reached over and squeezed my hand. “If you can accomplish some of these things and get the parents, guardians, and teachers to do the same, lots of children will feel the effects.”

“Couldn’t agree more,” I said and pulled out my two cookies. Sliding one Anya’s way, I smiled. “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if gaining self-assurance could be as easy as nibbling a cookie.”

Anya hooted. “You’re something Mr. Claus. Cookies may not be confidence boosters, but they certainly make you happy.”

Notes From Santa

I hope you enjoyed today’s story. Stories are posted on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturday of each month, except December. My next story will post on Saturday February 18, 2023. If you have any comments or if there is something you would like me to tell you about, please feel free to leave me a comment. Until the next time . . .

To read more stories about Santa & Children, please check out:

Just Part of the Family – August 26, 2019
Santa’s Waterpark Adventure – September 9, 2019
Toys for Santa – December 9, 2019
Discussions At the Lego Table – December 15, 2019
The Art of Gift Giving – January 13, 2020
The White Feather – May 18, 2020
Patience – June 15, 2020
The Real Santa – August 17, 2020
The Key to Kindness – November 2, 2020
Changing Times – May 10, 2021
Random Acts of Kindness – September 20, 2021
Letter From Santa – January1, 2022
Impossible Gifts – June 1, 2022

Find Cincy Santa (@CincySanta) on:

Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Illustration from Susan Spritz Myers

Doheny’s face gleamed with excitement. She had worked hard to create the batter for gingerbread girl and boy cookies. Just then the buzzer went off. Slipping on an oven mitt, she took out the cookie sheet and proudly examined the girl cookies.

“Don’t eat me,” a voice whispered.

After glancing around the kitchen, she decided it was her imagination and slipped a tray of boy gingerbread cookies into the oven.

When the girl cookies were cool enough, Doheny decorated them. Using white icing, she gave each cookie eyes, a nose and mouth. Yellow icing was used for their hair, and pink icing for their dresses. Red hearts were placed down the front as buttons, and mini M&Ms adorned the bottom of every dress.

The timer buzzed as Doheny finished decorating the girl cookies. Removing the next batch, she heard, “No one will eat me!”

Turning, Doheny saw one of the gingerbread girls jump off the cookie sheet, land on the floor and run toward the door.

“STOP! COME BACK!” Doheny yelled and darted after the cookie.

The Gingerbread Girl looked at the baker, laughed, and said:

“Run as fast as you can!
I’m much faster than you
You’ll never catch me
I’m the Gingerbread girl
For sure, I am!”

And Doheny could not catch her.

So, the Gingerbread Girl jogged through the courtyard where Lyra and her dogs were playing.

“Yummy,” Lyra said, catching a whiff of gingerbread. “Stop little cookie, you’ve made me hungry, and I’d like to eat you!”

The Gingerbread Girl giggled:

“I’ve run away from Doheny,
And I can run away from you.”

Lyra and her dogs took off after the cookie who shouted back at her:

“Run as fast as you can!
I’m much faster than you
You’ll never catch me
I’m the Gingerbread girl
For sure, I am!”

And Lyra and her dogs could not catch her.

So, the Gingerbread cookie ran on and on.

Soon she sprinted by the corral where Highstep and Blitzen were.

“Stop little cookie,” Highstep shouted. “You look delicious, and I want to eat you!”

The Gingerbread Girl chuckled:

“I’ve run away from Doheny,
I’ve run away from Lyra and her dogs,
And I can run away from you.”

So, Highstep and Blitzen darted after her. As the cookie ran away, she looked back and exclaimed:

“Run as fast as you can!
I’m much faster than you
You’ll never catch me
I’m the Gingerbread girl
For sure, I am!”

And neither Blitzen nor Highstep could catch her.

When the Gingerbread Girl arrived at the toy workshop, she noticed Bernard and Fizzlepop working.

The elves saw her running and thought they could corner the cookie. Bernard called out, “Come here little Gingerbread Girl. You smell so good. Don’t run so fast, you were made to be eaten.”

The Gingerbread Girl snorted:

“I’ve run away from Doheny,
I’ve run away from Lyra and her dogs,
I’ve run away from Highstep and Blitzen,
And I can run away from you.”

So, the elves scampered after her as the Gingerbread Girl roared:

“Run as fast as you can!
I’m much faster than you
You’ll never catch me
I’m the Gingerbread girl
For sure, I am!”

And the elves could not catch her.

The little Gingerbread Girl scurried faster than ever. Soon she saw a tall building and decided to enter. Rushing down the hall, she heard Doheny, Lyra and her dogs, Highstep, Blitzen, Bernard, and Fizzlepop shouting and hurried inside another room.

The Gingerbread Girl leaned against the door to listen. Suddenly, a deep voice behind her announced, “Ho Ho Ho, did Doheny send you?”

The Gingerbread Girl stared at Santa and nodded her head. She knew there was no place to go.

“How did she get you to run?” I asked.

“I’m not sure. I think maybe she used some of your Magic Fairy Dust instead of sprinkles by mistake. You’re not going to eat me, are you?”

“NO! As much as I love cookies, I would never do that.”

“Why not? Every elf I passed tried to catch me so they could eat me,” the Gingerbread Girl stated.

“They just saw a yummy cookie. I see something special in you.” Smiling, I opened the door so we could step into the hall.

All the elves who had been chasing the Gingerbread Girl stood silent with their mouths wide open. “Santa don’t you want to eat that cookie?” asked Bernard.

“And why would I want to do that?” I replied. Giving Doheny a pat on the back, I continued, “You outdid yourself this time. I don’t know how, but making a gingerbread cookie that can run and talk is something special.”

Walking away with the Gingerbread Girl, I smiled. “Let’s visit Ms. Claus,” I suggested.

The elves looked at each other, shrugged their shoulders, and shook their heads. Finally, Highstep said, “Leave it to Santa to turn an ordeal with a runaway cookie into something special!”

“Yeah,” Lyra laughed. “But I’d love to see the surprised look on Ms. Claus’s face. Who knew that Santa could resist the temptation of a yummy cookie.”

Notes From Santa

I hope you enjoyed today’s fractured fairy tale story. Stories are posted on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturday of each month, except December. My next story will post on Saturday February 4, 2023. If you have any comments or if there is something you would like me to tell you about, please feel free to leave me a comment. Until the next time . . .

To read more about the North Pole Kitchen please check out:

With a Little Help From My Friends – July 1, 2019
Not All Candy Canes Are The Same – July 22, 2019
The Great Cookie Bakeoff – July 6, 2020
Elf Secrets – November 30, 2020
Cookie Problems – December 1, 2021
Wearing The Green – March 15, 2022
The Scent of Christmas – October 1, 2022

Find Cincy Santa (@CincySanta) on:

Facebook – Twitter – Instagram

Quinten, manager of research and development, knocked on Santa’s office door. When he didn’t answer, the elf hesitated and then opened the door. “Santa, are you in there?” he called, sticking his head inside. Finding the office dark, he closed the door. “Strange Santa isn’t here this time of day.”

Noticing that Bernard’s office was open, Quentin walked over. “Afternoon Bernard.”

The head elf smiled and pushed aside piles of papers. “Quinten, have a seat. What can I do for you?”

“I was hoping you could tell me where I might find Santa. I’ve been working on a project for him and need more information.”

Bernard began tapping his pencil on the desk like a drummer. “Hmm. I haven’t seen him since this morning. Did you try the Mail Room? He likes to check it more often the closer we get to Christmas.”

“Yeah, why didn’t I think of that,” Quentin said lightly slapping the side of his head. “Thanks.”

“You got it. I’ll let Santa know you’re looking for him.” Bernard answered, returning to his stack of papers.

Quinten strolled toward the Mail Room. Entering, he asked the workers if they had seen Santa. All of them shrugged their shoulders except Babble. “Sorry, he was here earlier to ask me to translate some letters. Try the List Vault,” Babble responded, pointing to the door on the side of the room.

Quinten nodded and walked over to read the sign above the door: Nice & Naughty List Vault. Under it was posted a warning: Do Not Enter. To speak to someone, use the intercom below.

Pressing the red button, Quinten heard, “May I help you?”

“Booker this is Quinten. I was wondering if Santa was in there with you.”

“Earlier this morning, but I haven’t seen him for several hours now.”

“If he returns, tell Santa I’m looking for him.”

“You betcha.”

Before leaving the Mail Room, he heard Babble ask, “What time is it?”

“It’s almost 2 o’clock. Why?”

“Afternoon snack time for the big guy. Check the kitchen.”

“Thanks, I’ll give that a try.”

Quinten exited the mail room and strode over to the dining hall. As he approached the kitchen door, Blanch came out. Startled by the elf’s appearance, she looked concerned. “Quinten, lunch is over, but I could make you a sandwich if . . . “

“No, no, no,” Quinten chuckled. “I was here for lunch. I’m looking for Santa and thought he might be here.”

“He was a while ago.” She laughed and started to explain. “He didn’t think I saw him when he swiped about a half dozen cookies, but after all these years, I know exactly what he’s up to. I’m not sure where he goes, but it has to be a place where Ms. Claus can’t catch him.”

Quentin howled as he thought about Santa and his love of cookies. “Thanks Blanch. I have no idea where that might be. Guess I’ll try to find him later.”

Leaving the dining hall, he wandered outside. “Afternoon Ms. Claus,” he said as he noticed her quick steps across the courtyard. “Are you in a hurry?”

“Well good afternoon, Quinten. Not really, just need to get back to the Mail Room. Lots to do.” She was about to enter the door closest to the dining hall and turned. “Why the glum face?”

“I’ve been looking for Santa and can’t find him.”

“Did you check his office?”

“I’ve searched everywhere,” he said rubbing his hands anxiously, “but no luck. I have some concerns about this project he wanted me to develop, so I need to talk with him before I work any further on it.”

Anya grabbed Quinten’s hand saying, “Come with me. I think I can help you.”

Returning to Santa’s office, she opened the door.

“See? It’s dark in there, just like before.”

Smiling, Ms. Claus reached in the room and flicked the lights on, and pushed the door all the way open. When she stepped to the side, there was Santa, sitting on the couch with an empty plate.

I looked up at my wife’s bemused face. “I Love Blanche’s cookies. No one can top her.” Smiling, I finished my last cookie

Anya rolled her eyes and chuckled, “You see Quinten, Santa has this routine where after lunch he sneaks into the kitchen and helps himself to some cookies. He thinks nobody sees him, but all the kitchen elves know what he’s doing. Then he comes back to his office to eat them in the dark.”

With a quizzical look, Quinten asked, “Why in the dark?”

“Well, you see, Santa thinks if he eats his cookies in the dark, I won’t find out. And if I don’t find out, I won’t put him on a diet.”

My face reddened as I stood up and brushed the crumbs from my beard. “I’m just trying to get into shape for Christmas.”

“I think your Santa figure is just fine!” Quentin said as he patted my belly. “But Ms. Claus has a point. Too much of a good thing isn’t always the right thing to do,” chuckled Quentin.

I giggled and shook my head. “Never thought my elves would side with Ms. Claus like this.”

Notes From Santa

I hope you enjoyed today’s story. I will post another one on Tuesday November 15^th. If you have any comments or if there is something you would like me to tell you about, please feel free to leave me a comment. Until the next time . . .

To read more about Santa please check out

With A Little Help From My Friends – July 1, 2019
Santa’s Improved Sleigh – March 16, 2020
Pie Day – March 15, 2021
Is Santa Retiring – April 26, 2021
Sad Santa – January 15, 2022
Goofing Off – April 1, 2022

Find Cincy Santa (@CincySanta) on:

Facebook – Twitter – Instagram 

Illustration from My City My Choice