Playing Santa is a pretty good gig

For the last two years, I've played Santa at my kid's school. At first, I was hesitant to do so. Just felt that it was going to be weird and that I wouldn't be able to pull it off.  

Sure, I have the size (and belly), but more importantly, would the little kids believe I was the REAL big guy? 

From the expressions on the kid's faces and from the excitement shown by a lot of the little ones, I guess I pulled it off.  

Most amazing is the feeling you get when you see a little girl or boy who's eyes are so wide that they are busting out of their sockets. They just can't WAIT to see you, take a picture and more importantly, tell you what they want for Christmas. 

Of course, you had the older kids who knew I wasn't the real deal but had fun with it. And let me say, some of the parents had a pretty good (inappropriate) time at my expense at well. I tell ya, the pent-up housewives thing is legit and the Santa suit does it. 

Wish I thought of that when I was single.  

Kidding, because that's a bit creepy.  

Or not.  

Seriously though, it's a good experience. Being able to fill a kid's heart with joy is much better than any other gift I could get. Being able to convince a little baby that I'm not going to eat them and that I am a fun guy to take a picture with is cool. Or, winning a scared toddle over with a couple of high fives and a few smiles to the point they'll get near me, sort of, for a pic, is a win. 

In the end, a little bit of self-embarrassment for a boat load of Christmas joy, happiness, smiles, a some adult fun is well worth it. Can't wait until next year. 

Ho Ho Ho!