Santa makes annual stop in Laurel
Crystal Brummels
Laurel Advocate
LAUREL — Saint Nicholas, Saint Nick, Santa Claus, Kris Kringle, Santa, just a few of the names for the jolly ole’ man that young and old get excited to see this time of year, but how well do you know the man who brings joy to so many.
Santa made his annual stop at Laurel’s Night of Lights. His first stop was to light the town’s Christmas tree downtown and officially kick off the celebration. From there, Santa went to the Laurel Plantation where Crow’s Nest Antiques and the Laurel Plantation had set up the perfect backdrop for Santa pictures. Children young and old were given the opportunity to take a few minutes to talk to him and share those Christmas wishes.
When the last child had his chance to sit upon Santa’s lap, Santa took a few minutes to share some of his favorites for all to get to know him better.
“The chance to bring happiness and smiles to the little people, really everyone but especially the little ones,” Santa said is his favorite thing about Christmas time.
Santa knows that Christmas may not be an easy time of year for some, but if he is able to help bring a small amount of happiness to that person, he’s done his job of paying forward that kindness.
Shortly before Thanksgiving Santa’s planner gets incredibly full with appearances. Without all his little helpers, Santa would not be able to accomplish all he does not only during the Christmas season but throughout the year.
In addition to double checking that naughty and nice list, he travels to local communities.
Santa also enjoys receiving all those Christmas letters; but enjoys the emails and text messages he receives nowadays as well.
While some children eagerly jump onto his lap ready to whisper their Christmas wish list in his ear, other children are not always as eager. Santa understands that it’s a normal part of child development to have a “stranger anxiety” stage. If the child is hesitant, there’s always next year. Santa has gotten his fair share of “children say the darndest” things over the years, not one stands out more than the other.
Santa has his own favorites, too. There are many movies about Santa he enjoys. The movie “Miracle on 34th Street is one that I really enjoy,” he said. “I find myself humming ‘Here Comes Santa Claus’ throughout the day or sometimes ‘Jingle Bells,’” said Santa regarding his favorite Christmas songs.
A tradition in many homes is to leave a small treat for Santa to keep his energy level up throughout the hectic Christmas Eve night.
“I like them all,” said Santa when asked if he has a favorite cookie. He enjoys warm milk, cold milk, even milk with a tad bit of chocolate in it.
The LCC preschoolers will make the magical reindeer mix to give the reindeer a boost of energy, they also enjoy carrots and celery.
“One of the best parts of this job is seeing the generations. It’s fun to see the children become the parent,” said Santa.
