My Cardboard Balcony

Santa Claus Lost Twenty Pounds by Belinda Roddie Santa Claus lost twenty pounds just before the Christmas season. He swore off all sweets and cookies that were baked, served, and made more tempting with each sprinkle. The lovely treats were made by Missus Claus herself, though she had pushed her husband to maintain his strict diet and exercise regimen. He did his best with his push-ups and his quick decisions between sugar or cooked greens. Oh, the great holiday legend was tough, and he trimmed down the weight 'til he was lean and fit. Saying no to cake was quite rough, but he was slim and trim by Christmas Eve. "Just one brownie," he said, "before I leave."

It was the season to be jolly. It was the season to be kind. The Santas hovered around the corners of the grocery stores, their spectacles shined, their boots polished, and their beards as white as the blizzard coating red coats with winter wonderland. I gave a quarter to a Santa's bucket, and he gave me a laugh as rich and hearty as a cup of cocoa or a mug of beer. I smiled.