Checking in with SANTA CLAUS
His parents and sister died when he was only 6 years old, and he was raised by several families in his small fishing village. It’s hard to believe that a child with such tragic beginnings grew into a man who brings joy children all over the Earth: Santa Claus.
“As with most things, I sort of fell into the job,” Claus says. “I began making toys that first year after my parents died. I wanted to give something back to the families who cared for me, so I began carving wooden toys for the children. Every year I would deliver the toys to mor and more children. The next thing I knew, I was making toys for the whole village.”
Claus hired some elves, bought some reindeer and began developing ideas for new toys for children. Fifty years later, his generosity has grown into a worldwide effort.
He’s often asked how he makes it to so many homes in one night, and whether his reindeer really fly. “A man has to have a few secrets,” he says with a mysterious smile. “The children who believe know in their hearts will find them.”
Claus says he isn’t really happy about parents using his name to help promote good behavior. “All year these kids hear, ‘You better straighten Santa’s watching.’ Then they expect the little darlings to walk up and sit on my lap at one of those malls. There is sheer terror in their eyes. I kno I’d be more than a little scared of some guy who watches my every move and then decides if I’ve been good or bad.
“Christmas is about celebrating love and joy,” he continues. “Parents need to understand that our children are the most important reason any of us are here. Show them you love and appreciate them, and watch the grow into wonderful people.” Marital status: Married. “She knows I’m not going anywhere I’m addicted to her creamy hot chocolate and sugar cookies.” Film: “Well, I have a fondness for holiday films. My favorite wa probably ‘The Santa Clause’ with that Tim Allen fellow. The idea that a novice could take over this job made me belly laugh the whole way through.” Music: “We go for variety here at the North Pole. The elves pla everything from Ricky Martin and Smashing Pumpkins at our after-Christmas party. My wife loves Andy Williams.” Favorite songs: Bruce Springsteen’s “Santa Claus Is Comin’ t Town,” Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” Favorite books: “A Visit From Saint Nicholas” by Dr. Clemen Moore. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” by Dr. Seuss Favorite movies: “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “A Christmas Carol