Dearest Santa

I've got to say that I nearly had my Christmas socks knocked off last year when I received almost everything I asked for from you (A Letter to Santa). Not only did I find a whole chicken, but it was completely whole and I had a bit of a battle hacking off its head and feet. Nonetheless, it fitted perfectly into the oven bag and the oven and roasted itself with such delight that I swore I heard the angels singing on the Christmas tree. My guests were no less rapturous at the results and not only devoured the fowl faster than you can sing all Twelve Days of Christmas, but have demanded various repeat performances throughout the year, giving me a lot of practice in chopping off chickens' heads. Naturally, the success of last year's letter to you, for which I must express my most heartfelt thanks, has prompted this one.

First off, you have to know that I am not going to be in Taiwan when you fly over here. I will be back in South Africa until after New Year, so include me in the African leg of your flight. I know that there are a lot more stops to make over Africa than here in Asia, so instead of asking for actual things, which will only burden your sleigh more, this year I am only asking for a few sprinkles of magic dust, or whatever it is you use, to get me the things I want.

So my wish list this year is 1) the perfect photo opportunity. I would love to adorn the walls of my home with exquisite photos of South Africa for all who visit me to gasp in awe at. Then 2) perfect weather to do 1). Maybe I should be asking God for this second wish, but you know him at this time of year - all those Christmas services and masses to attend - so I thought you would do. Not that you're second best, of course, but I'm not exactly sure that this is a frequent request made of you. And 3) many interesting experiences on this trip that will take Jia Hui's mind off Taiwan and home. Four weeks is a long time to be wandering around an unfamiliar land, so a little fascination will go a long way in making things exciting rather than strange.

Finally 4): I'm still waiting for the BMW I requested last year.

Yours hopefully

Dion Marc Delport

15 December 2003

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