So there's this community event in our village and I'm sat in a grotto hastily made out of blankets, quilt covers, tinsel and Christmas lights, wearing a naff old Santa costume that didn't fit properly and feeling rather silly. I grab a cup of tea and a biscuit just before we open and almost regret having volunteered for the job. My elf assistant takes a quick snapshot and then then we switch of the main room lights, adjust my costume slightly and open the doors to the public. Suddenly the room is full of excited children and I'm worrying that I'm not going to be a very convincing Father Christmas after all. Two little girls then come into the grotto to see me. I still haven't worked out exactly what to say to them, so I ask their names, how old they are and what they want for Christmas... And then the magic kicks in and everything changes! To them I AM Santa Claus and they're excited and awestruck because I'm speaking to them. The sparkle and wonder in their eyes makes me feel really warm inside and when I give them each a present and finally say goodbye they skip off looking really happy and contented, and I breath a sigh of relief. The rest of my two-hour reign as Santa Claus passes quickly like a pleasant dream... The most important thing I learn from the experience? That's easy... NEVER LOSE CHILDLIKE WONDER!
