Dear Santa,

First off, I know this is your busy day of the year. The one you have been preparing and preparing for. You may not read this letter until you return from all your giving across the world and back to the North Pole. But I wanted to send you something to read for that moment you return home, prop your feet up by the fire while snuggled in a warm comfy chair, and drink a piping-hot cup of hot cocoa.

You see Santa, this year I am not asking for anything tangible. That is in part why I am writing you late. I do not need a wrapped present under the tree (though I will admit I like them when you bring them). What I'm asking for this year is different. I'm asking this year that you send a bit of your Christmas spirit through the rest of the year to all my friends, family, and loved ones across the world, as well as their loved ones, and so on. I ask that you help guide each of us with a smile on our faces through the next 365 days to Christmas. I ask that you think of their health and spirits, and send good energy to each and everyone. I ask that you help us keep your spirit alive during the months other than December.

In other words, I guess I'm asking for a lot. For everything, you might say. But if anyone can do it, I think it would be you.

Currently, my Dad has just put on one of our favorite Christmas movies, "Miracle on 34th Street." With the sound of it playing in the background, the glowing spirit of the church service we just left, and the fading sound of the Bell Choir ringing in "Silent Night," I also want to say thank you Santa. That is my final reason for writing.

Thank you for all the memories, the stories, the lingering delight. Thank you for letting me hear the sleigh bells early last night, as one of your Merry helpers ran through the streets of my town in full Santa costume. It brought a smile to my face. Thank you for the traditions, for the cookies, for the overwhelming warmth of mulled wine and the soon to have fondue dinner. Thank you for always keeping me believing. Thank you Santa for all you do.

Safe travels Santa and Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!!!

Your friend,

Denver

P.S. I know it may seem odd to dress a T-Rex in a Santa outfit, but this town wouldn't be the same if it didn't.

P.P.S. My Mom is calling and would like me to tell you, "Santa, you did a good job through all of the years. No complaints." I second this statement. We all always believe..."he does exist, he does..."

Cacophony & Chocolate

It was a cacophony of noise at the Rock tonight. My little feet went to and fro the kitchen while slinging beer and food to multiple customers. Running around straight for five hours can take a lot out of a girl. When I finally had a moment for a break, I walked outside to the calm and quite of a chilled evening and my mind went to the chocolate hiding in my purse.

1 lb of 66% Italian cocoa chips, which will be made into Raspberry Truffles, makes any girl smile.

The holidays are fast approaching, and my yearly cookie party is in only a week. With the idea that I will be able to make one recipe a day, I think I'm in steady progress of making this the easiest party thus far.

Now of course, because I've said this, I'm interested to see what hitches arise. But I think I will play it by ear. I will be that server that can take on multiple tables at once without yelling, but instead of serving I will be the baker in the kitchen, stirring and mixing, measuring and combining, and appreciating a very aromatic house.

Walking back into work, the noise was subdued. I finished working, and was able to sit with a few friends and a beer. When I got home, the chocolate bag was pulled from my purse and I took in a long whiff of its aroma. I can't wait to begin the meditative baking process tomorrow. And in my kitchen the cacophony of noise is a bit of DeVotchka playing in the background, with beaters whirling to my hearts content, and the smacking sound of my lips enjoying each and every treat I make.

.....Pause....

Winter is coming. The snow has not blanketed the ground yet, but the chill is in the air. And I will admit I'm awaiting the first large snow fall that turns everything white.

Today was one of those days.

One you just have to cherish for its grandness of simplicity.

A day that makes you pause, and think of all the amazing things that take place in a day.

I woke and began the day slow, a nice hot shower. Then I saw an amazing image a friend had taken of me (and found worthy to post to his site) on-line. It made me think how greatly talented people are.

Next, it was off to sip on a cup of joe (or as the baristas know: a small latte with almond flavouring). I relaxed with the warming beverage and read to the end of Dickens "A Christmas Carol," as I ate a cranberry scone. I continued the day sitting and talking with a new friend while I knitted away at a project.

Then on my drive home, I saw a man on the street. A man a friend had told me she had seen just days ago. He was homeless (or merely out on the street for the day), holding one of those card board signs marked in Black Sharpie ink. He was so merry as he danced to and fro with it.

It had one word: SMILE. And smile I did.

Home was a "Girls Night." Or I guess I should say, we came to see it that way.

miss georgia b. dyed my hair black, and we gossipped the time away, pizza from The Pie, and a cheesy movie, followed by more talking.

As she left, I felt chocolate was in order, so I entered the lightly biting air of near winter and walked in the quiet night streets listening to music. A song came on I couldn't quite place, and when I looked to see what it was, I laughed.

Sometimes friends you only know for a short while have sent you things you will cherish for a lifetime. I walked out of the convenience store with my chocolate, humming away to the music, and saw a woman sitting in her car and smiled to her. I walked back home listening to the song over and over again.

Sometimes we just have to pause and remember: We are all here, why not enjoy each others company, even if just for a small encounter.

SMILE everyone :)