Santa 2001

Christmas 2001 was a very special Christmas for me. The main reason it was so special is that I wasn't in the hospital. You see, Christmas 2000 I was laying flat on my back in the hospital. I spent 26 days in the hospital in December 2000. Not to mention the fact that I almost died during my stay in the hospital.

I know you are wondering why I was so ill and what was wrong with me. Well, I can't answer that question. I had 10 doctors and they don't know what was wrong with me either. I had test after test, but the answer to the question...what was wrong...no one knows.

After my stay in the hospital, I had a few months recovery period...but I kept remembering my stay in the hospital on Christmas. I vowed to myself that Christmas 2001 would be a special Christmas...not only for me, but for all the people around me.

The bright idea came to me that I should be Santa. Yap! A 4'6" Santa. The more I thought about it the more I liked the idea. I bought bright red felt fabric for the suit...black felt for the belt...yellow felt for the buckle...and artifical white fur for the trim. I also purchased a white wig and beard. My sewing machine was singing "Jingle Bells All the Way" as I created my santa suit. It turned out perfect. I pinned a throw pillow onto an extra large t-shirt for padding. I was set. Suit done and candy canes in my "santa teddy bear sack" and I was ready.

The first time I wore my Santa suit was at the ICF Christmas Party. John and I went to the party wearing usual clothes. After the refreshments were over John and I snuck out and he helped me put my suit on over my clothes. WOW! I really did look great. (hate to brag) Here is a picture of Santa with some of the party guests.

John with Santa

Paul with Santa

My second Santa experience was at the RCIA Christmas Party. I am sponsoring a young man who is a RCIA candidate becoming a Catholic. Yes, I am committed to my religion.

Fr. Loren with Santa. A special, special friend.

Diane another special friend.

Santa's special friend.

Florence another special friend.

The third time wearing my Santa suit was at a Christmas Party at the Pastoral Center. A group of friends and us (John, Paul and me) have potluck parties during the holiday times of year. The parties are for people who have no one to be with during holiday times.

Well, the Santa suit is hung up and put away for Christmas 2002. I was thinking...could a 4'6"Easter Bunny be in my future. HA! Only time will tell. But I would put money on it if I were a betting "bunny". HA!

I hope all of you have a super 2002. All your hopes and dreams come true and most of all Thank God Everyday for each moment of your life. 'Cause I sure do.