When Santa Came to Visit

Merry Christmas from the child long ago

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It was a special Christmastime when Santa came to visit our little crowded home. I was about six-years-old and one of 9 children. One night, after dinner we had a surprise visit from Santa Claus. I was delighted Santa would take the time away from organizing his toy delivery to be with us.

Santa didn’t bring us toys, instead he delivered bags and boxes filled with food. It was a night filled with excitement and wonder when Santa Claus was sitting in my own living room. Santa told us our name was on his special list and while he stayed a short time, we “oohhed” and “ahhhed” over the generous gift of food. Soon he drove off (this Santa didn’t have any reindeer) and he never saw us enjoy the many meals it provided.

There were cans of vegetables, soups, boxes of cereal, rice, potatoes, and prepared foods we had never even tasted. I had never been so excited about groceries in my life. I remember my mother’s relieved smile, knowing this would provide us with many meals. As my mother unpacked the boxes of food, she had to put aside her pride as well.

Our father’s company had been on strike for several months, and as Christmases go, it would be a lean one. Our mother had already prepared us to expect only one present that year. She was used to stretching meals, but…