Galatians 3:7 ~ New Living Translation ~ "The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God."

Good frosty morning from my little piece of real estate to wherever you happen to be, on this New Year's Eve, December 31, 2025. Yep, we dipped momentarily below freezing here after hitting 83 degrees (°F) on Christmas Day. And, I used that my real estate wording advisedly because here in the state of Texas, even though our property has been paid off for years, well, we still get annual property taxes and if you don't pay them, well, your property can become their property which in a way I suppose it already is since they tend to have control over it. You do know what I mean. Right, Vern? I do not want to use a cliche here but for us, New Years Eve is mostly like, let me see, it's like Wednesday before the anticipated next day Thursday. I know. That sounds so boring but since I am into overused phrases, it is what it is. I do know that God gave us time for a reason. No. It's not just so we can have an alarm clock, however, the alarm clock metaphor does fit the primary reason He gave time to us. That is that we might think about where we have been, where we are now, and where we are headed. That sometimes involves the proverbial wake up call. For slow learners like me, it typically involves numerous wake up calls from The Front Desk Above. Okay. I've pretty much worn out that illustration, but, I do think it's okay to have God meddle in our business and He has promised to do just that when it involves His own. Last Sunday our pastor brought a message regarding the communication God had with Abraham before the destruction of Sodom and Gomorah. (Genesis Chapters 17 and 18) God visiting and talking with Abraham. Now that, my friend, is an awesome thought. I remind myself that Abraham was a man, like me. We are well aware of the times he made wrong choices and failed to operate as God would have had him to. However, this man Abraham with all of his missteps, he was known as the Friend of God. (James 2:23, Isaiah 41:8, 2 Chronicles 20:7). That same fellow. The one Jesus said he had seen His day and rejoiced. (John 8) God talked with him. Sure. I know Abraham became the father of the nation of Israel and he became a model of faith as made clear in Hebrews 11. My point? God deals with individuals on a personal basis. With all the flaws, warts, and blemishes, He still loves and cares for His own. That sermon was dealing with a different point, but, it spoke to me in this way: He still wants me to be all that I can be within His plan and purpose for my life. And, as a Christ follower, you too! Okay. That is what I call a handful of thrown together thoughts to encourage us all as we get ready for a brand new year. I'm glad God didn't give up on Abraham and He will not give up on you and I. Amen.

 

A number of years ago we hosted a Thursday evening meeting in our home. It was a gathering of folks, mostly from our local fellowship, and, we had snacks, songs, and, yours truly brought a spiritual devotional. The folks who came were typically, older. Duh? We did have a few that were not so old. Those who showed up always wanted us to sing songs that meant a lot to them. We would often sing the same songs every week because they asked or perhaps, insisted would be a better way to describe it. Songs that spoke to them like, Victory In Jesus, Just A Closer Walk, I Know Who holds Tomorrow, and, one that seemed to connect folks to their heritage, In the Garden. I thought about that particular song as it relates to God's communication with His own. If you've never heard it, look it up on YouTube. Just do it. Here are the lyrics:

 

In the Garden, written by Charles Miles and published in 1913

 

I come to the garden alone,
    While the dew is still on the roses,
    And the voice I hear falling on my ear
    The Son of God discloses.
 
        Refrain:
        And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
        And He tells me I am His own;
        And the joy we share as we tarry there,
        None other has ever known. 
         
    He speaks, and the sound of His voice
    Is so sweet the birds hush their singing,
    And the melody that He gave to me
    Within my heart is ringing.

Refrain:
        And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
        And He tells me I am His own;
        And the joy we share as we tarry there,
        None other has ever known. 

    I’d stay in the garden with Him,
    Though the night around me be falling,
    But He bids me go; through the voice of woe
    His voice to me is calling.

Refrain:
        And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
        And He tells me I am His own;
        And the joy we share as we tarry there,
        None other has ever known. 

I can tell you this about that. Many tears graced the faces of these seasoned saints as they contemplated the truths found in this song. That gives us all something to think about. It does. It really does. Until next time, stay up, watch the ball drop, (we saw the video of the testing of it, so we have no need, ha!), be safe, and as always be ready to offer up praise and worship to God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Amen and Amen.

"Consider Your Ways" ~ Old Testament Writing of Haggai

Good morning and welcome to today's sermonette. Just joking. Today is Tuesday, December 30, 2025, and, it is 40 degrees (°F) outside here at the ole blogger ranch. While that's not cold compared to many who are iced in, it is a dramatic drop from the above average temps we experienced in and around our Christmas celebrations. I have a confession to make. I watch a lot of sermons. I do. I really do. If you ever become interested I highly recommend YouTube searches for our Pastor, Dr. Jerry Chaddick, another great pulpit expositor, Pastor C. T. Townsend, I also enjoy hearing the verse by verse presentation from Pastor Gary Hamrick and Pastor Skip Heitzig, the teaching approach from Pastor David Guzik, and, the through the Bible teacher, Dr. J. Vernon Magee, and, Pastor Chuck Smith, Dr. Charles Stanley, and many others. As we get ready to say goodbye to 2025 I randomly landed on a couple of expository presentations from the Prophet Haggai written to the nation of Israel. I have taught that passage myself more than a few times, however, it is an accountability text that reminds us how we are here for a purpose. Accounting for what I accomplished in 2025 is a difficult process. Accounting for what I did for the kingdom in this soon to end year is even more arduous. Why? I suppose because it makes me aware that God has blessed me to be a blessing. Only what's done for Christ will live on and will meet us when we leave this life for the next. The Haggai passage is all about how Israel was using the resources for things other than what God had called them to do. And, as a result God was not blessing the outcomes they were pursuing. The Prophet was sent by God to call them to account for themselves in terms of their specific calling to rebuild the Temple which lay in ruins. That was why they had providentially been returned to the land. Go back and rebuild the Temple. They started to do that but opposition came and the work stopped. They then turned to other pursuits, like building nice homes for themselves and using their resources for other endeavors. God's message was clear, they needed to stop and consider what they were doing. And, that's what I need to do. Take stock of where I am, what I have been doing and compare that to the calling God has on my life. In their case, a great revival came as they returned to the work God called them to accomplish. Like I say, self accountability in terms of kingdom efforts, well, it is always convicting and I don't particularly like thinking about it. What about you? Here's the interesting thing about their response as recorded by Haggai. When they got up and began again to pursue their God ordained assignment, God's Spirit returned to aid them along their way. 

 

I will have to account for me, myself, and I, because as a Christ follower I need awareness of what God wants me to do and then I need to evaluate my progress towards His calling. I look at it like this. I didn't land on these two different fresh expositional sermons from the Book of Haggai by accident. Sure. I am very familiar with that Book, however, God can speak through His Word to anyone at anytime He chooses, including me. I've got my own wrestling to do with my own self. Here's my recommendation for you. Go and read the short two chapters in Haggai. Prayerfully consider what God is saying to His own chosen people which you and I are if we are saved by the blood of the Lamb, the Lord Jesus Christ. I often look up teachings by a specific passage like the Book of Haggai, just make sure the individual presenting God's Word is a trustworthy steward committed to rightly dividing the word of truth. (2nd Timothy 2:15) Believe me when I say this. I have plenty to say grace over in my own camp, but, this is what got stirred up since very early, way before the crack of dawn this morning and now I have released it for whatever purpose God chooses to use it. And, may He speak to each one according to His will, and, in so doing may we hear and respond. That would be my prayer today. Amen.

 

Footnote: Expository preaching and teaching seeks to allow God to speak through the passage being presented. Here's how Dr. Albert Mohler, President of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, describes this approach, "Expository preaching is that mode of Christian preaching that takes as its central purpose the presentation and application of the text of the Bible . . . all other issues and concerns are subordinated to the central task of presenting the biblical text." 

A Daily Ride Earth gives to everyone, And every Year a Trip around the Sun. ~ Arthur Guiterman, "Of Stars," A Poet's Proverbs, 1924

Good morning and I am thanking God today for my sister, JoAnn, who, as of today, Monday, December 29, 2025, has been blessed by God to attain 81 years here on the planet. She's not had an easy go of it for many of her years, however, she walks by faith and is an encouragement and inspiration to us all. That's her behind the couch on the right, and, that's yours truly on the couch sitting on the left next to mom. Looking at that photo taken on Resurrection Sunday, 1953, in Hornbeck, Lousiana, in the living room of mom's parents we were visiting, Granny and Paw Paw Mac, and it is worth noting that JoAnn and I are the only ones left in our sojourn in this life. Dad, Jimmy, Kayla, Donald, Mom, (step dad Jose), and Frances, they have all gone on to their reward. I believe we will see them again on the other side. I don't altogether understand how that will work but faith in The Scriptures inform me that I will. We sing much about that as we remember our loved ones gone on before. One that I grew up singing was entitled 'Glad Reunion Day'. It was written by a prolific song writer, Adger M. Pace, and published in 1940. It's one that reflects our hopes of seeing our saved loved ones again: 

 

The lyrics may be hard to see in that photo of how it appeared in the song books we used, in shape note style.

 

Lyrics: 

Glad Reunion Day

There will be a happy meeting in heaven I know When we see the many loved ones we’ve known here below. Gather on the blessed hilltops with hearts all aglow. That will be a glad reunion day.


(Chorus)

Glad day, a wonderful day, Glad day, a glorious day; There with all the holy angels and loved ones to stay, That will be a glad reunion day.

There within the holy city we’ll sing and rejoice, Praising Christ the blessed Saviour with heart and with voice. Tell him how we came to love Him and make Him our choice. That will be a glad reunion day.

(Chorus)

When we live a million years in that wonderful place Basking in the love of Jesus, beholding His face. It will seem but just a moment of praising His grace. That will be glad reunion day.

(Chorus)

 

While we are enthralled by the truth illustrated in that song, I would be remiss not to point out the overwhelming joy to be experienced, as Bro. Pace wrote it, "Basking in the love of Jesus, beholding His face It will seem but just a moment of praising His grace That will be a glad reunion day." We love to think about seeing mother and dad and others, however, on that day we shall see Jesus, the One who gave Himself up in our place that we might spend eternity in His presence, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I am looking forward to what all this means. I am. I really am. I hope you are too. Again, Happy Birthday Sis, and, may God add His blessings. Amen.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV: "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you").

Good morning and welcome. Today is Friday, December 26, 2025, and, we are dealing with what I generally call The Day After situation here at the ole blogger ranch. All those hours of preparation, all those efforts trying to make the day as special as we know how, and, within maybe five hours or less, it's all scheduled for the memory book. Some good ones too! I used to watch our boys play. I then spent time, a lot of time, watching our grandchildren play, and now, I spend the time seeing our great grands do their thing. What do I call someone involved in those slices of life moments? I would say blessed beyond measure. What say you? I cooked up some chicken parts, some pork rib-lets, and, the star of the menu, one dozen good sized steaks, and, I almost forgot, a partridge in a pear tree. The steaks were mostly medium to medium rare with one or two well done. That reminds me of a friend who used to order his in this way, "When you think it is well done through and through, cook it for another 5 minutes and it should be just right." Hearing that caused me a fair amount of grimacing, however, this is America and we can choose how we want our steak cooked. I mean, think about it. There are people who actually pour steak sauce on top of a perfectly cooked steak. While that makes me want to run and hide, it is how they like it. One of the slogans for A1 went like this, "Makes steak sing." It makes me sing too. In fact, it reminds me of watching the black and white version of Titanic from 1953, I can see in my mind's eye those people left on the ship singing 'Nearer My God to Thee' as the ship slips into the icy waters. Okay. I will grant you that might be a little over dramatized, but, it does convey my thoughts on the matter. A word picture, if you will. (And, in answer to your question, we do not have any of those types of sauces on our premises, just so you know.) Here's how we assess having our annual Christmas get together: Twenty of us came together, we had fun, we feasted, we had wonderful fellowship, and, in the prayer I prayed over the day as we all gathered together was that we all would be reminded of our Savior and how He came and how God planned it all so that we might be made right with Him, and, that we might even enjoy a day like yesterday. ("All good gifts come from above..." James 1:17) We've never really had one of those knock down and drag out kind of days and I really can't remember any major difficulties encountered. I return to that theme I mentioned above: Blessed and, again I say, "Thank You Lord for giving us a good day. Amen." 

I think most of us are familiar with what we generally refer to as a good tired. The wife and I were both in the good tired mode when it was all said and done. My grandad used to say, "It won't take long for me to be rocked to sleep tonight." That was exactly the truth for me last night. It didn't take long. And, yes, my friend, I'm very thankful for that too. I am. I really am. Thank You Lord! Amen.

May God add His blessings!

 

"On Christmas Eve, your blessings shine a little brighter as you bask in the joy of the season." ~ copied

Our Christmas gathering, seven years ago in 2018. So many changes since then!

Welcome one and all, it's Christmas Eve here at the ole blogger ranch, on this Wednesday, December 24, 2025. Snowflakes falling? I don't think so. Not even close where we here in this area are expecting temps in the 80's and some forecasters are looking at potential high temp records. Yeah that does make for a different feel but it doesn't dampen our spirits since we come together as a family to celebrate the birth of Jesus and the freedom He won for us and that makes for true family fellowship. You know. The family of God. I saw the other day a theologian saying the greatest heresy to influence the Church over the past fifty years is how Universalism has crept in. What's that all about? Well, it is a teaching that says everyone goes to heaven in the end because God is a God of love. While that is a prevalent thinking in many Churches today, there is a serious problem with the "he or she is in a better place now" approach to life and death. According to the Scriptures, the only way anyone is in a better place when they die is if they have put their faith in Christ, confessed their sin and been born again by the power of the living God. If you are not born again Nicodemus, you will not see the Kingdom of God. (John Chapter 3) Yikes! You mean not everyone is going to heaven? Yes. That is exactly what the Bible teaches and any touchy feel-y thinking will not change the truth. But, you and I don't have to succumb to a heretical falsehood because once we see ourselves as hopeless and in need of a Savior we can call on the Lord to save us and He will. (Joel Chapter 2, and Romans Chapter 10) Sorry to step on someone's hope for eternity in some kind of happy happy land because God sent His Son to die for the sins of the world, but, it is only by placing our faith in Him that we will live in heaven with Him for the rest of eternity. Only one way! No if's, and's, or but's about it. Yet, for this Christmas, His coming to save us is still the greatest story ever told. That Baby who was born and laid in a manger, (I do get weary of hearing really bright and intelligent folks say he was born in a manger, sorry, he was born and laid in that feeding trough and it became His crib.), that Baby grew up, and because He was conceived in Mary's womb by God the Holy Spirit, He knew no sin, lived a perfect life, and died on The Cross for all humanity. He died for all and I am so glad when the Bible says whosoever that included me, and it can include you too friend. It is a call for those living in darkness to come to the light of the Christmas Babe, the Savior. If you are depending on a everyone goes to heaven theology, well, you will be sadly mistaken when you breathe your last. Why? It's not true, not because I say it isn't true, but because God has told us that only through the blood of His Son shall any be saved. Got it? Good. I hope and pray we all have gotten it. That's not just a Christmas Present, it is His Presence, the Living Lord of the Universe living in each of His own. Wow! Makes me want to sing that old song, "Oh What A Savior!" Amen.

 

Sorry to ramble on and on about this but knowing Jesus as your Savior is too important not to get it right. I know my blog is landed on for a variety of reasons wherever the world wide web travels. I've received notes from folks from all over the globe, therefore, my prayer is that whoever reads might be moved to act upon the truth they come in contact with and I also want everyone to know when I sit down and write I produce what comes to my feeble mind. I pray that with God's moving my attempt to share will be a help to someone, somewhere. Happy Christmas Eve from our home to yours, and, may God add His blessings. Amen.  

"Everybody has troubles, but not everybody has Jesus, Jesus makes the difference!" ~ copied

 

Happy eve of Christmas Eve, on this December 23, 2025. I bid each and everyone a most wonderful time of reflection on Jesus the Savior along with enjoying time with family and friends. Those boys in the photo are our boys. They decided to enact the wise men as depicted in Matthew's Gospel. Or, they may have been encouraged to do it, but, they came up with stuff they located in the house. On the left is our eldest Chris who turned 60 this past October. In the middle is our baby, Rodney, and he will be 55 this next February. The middle son is our Jimmy who is now 57. I know they don't like the photo as much as I do, but, I put it up in keeping with the theme of Christmastime memories. They all have grandchildren now and we've been blessed over the years to spend many special days of gathering on Christmas Day. Everyone has their own homegrown traditions. One of ours is the fact that we grill steaks on Christmas Day here at the ole blogger ranch. We've been doing steaks since the boys were in their early teens. Yesterday I ventured out to bring home our meat for this year's gathering. "Mr. President, I think I discovered why some people are struggling with affordability. Let me break it down very simply: G-R-O-C-E-R-I-E-S!" Here's the Artificial Intelligence explanation of why beef is so high, "Beef is expensive due to a severe U.S. cattle herd contraction (smallest in decades) caused by past droughts and high feed/input costs, leading to lower supply, while strong demand and factors like tariffs (especially on Brazilian beef) and labor issues keep prices high. Rebuilding the herd takes years, creating a prolonged supply squeeze, which, combined with inflation, makes beef cost more for consumers." I haven't, in my lifetime, seen numbers on steaks like it is this year, however, we are blessed to be able to purchase them, but, at the same time, I can, as an American exercise my freedom to complain about a $300 payment at the grocery check out. I didn't check the nationality of the cattle that produced the meat I purchased, but, as my grandfather might say, "They really like those steaks, don't they?" We will not have our entire entourage at this years gathering, but, we are supposed to have a total of around 20. I know. That's a good number but it is not close to the 30 and over we've grown to over the years. As we continue the journey this shrinking will likely also continue, but, at the same time, God has been good to us. He has. He really has. I hope you are able to count your blessings wherever you happen to be today. Sitting here in front of the ole blogger ranch computer, with Lil Miss Biscuit laying in my lap, well, I was able to climb the stairs holding a cup of strong Community Coffee in one hand and Biscuit on the leash in the other. That's not easy for 79 plus, but, I pause to thank God that was able to get up here and I came close but didn't spill a drop on the way up. See what I mean? It may seem small, like the next heartbeat or the next breath, but, I think we all can find something to be thankful for. Amen? Amen!

Truth in reporting required me to furnish the photo of  Lil Miss Biscuit laying on my lap. I'm not saying that's the most comfortable or efficient way for me to click and clack on the keyboard, but, it has become a daily time for us, and she seems to enjoy it. She does. She really does. I put up something from the Bible every day to some family groups on Messenger. I used a couple of verses from this passage today. Here is the extended contextual reporting of the truth from the Gospel of Luke, Chapter 2, Verses 8-14, "In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people. For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”  And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased." (from the Legacy Standard Bible) Shepherds. Really? Dr. Edersheim's view is these particular shepherds were likely the ones who stood watch over the flock that produced the lambs grown and nourished to become sacrificed at The Temple. These shepherds were chosen by God to see The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Now that's something to reflect on as we enjoy this season. It is. It really is. My advice? Reflect on it throughout your celebrations. It will be time well spent. May God add His blessings. Amen.

"What we have once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us." ~ Helen Keller, (1880-1968), a 20th century American author, activist, and educator who became deaf and blind after an illness at 19 months old.

Hello once again and welcome to the Christmas Week Edition emanating from the ole blogger ranch, today's version comes to you on this Monday, December 22, 2025. I didn't get one done last Friday because I, aka The Real Santa, was very busy taking photos of over 100 kids at one of the Kiddie Academy locations. That photo above is of my grandad, Andrew Rancher McMillan, (1900-1971), known to us kids as Paw Paw Mac, and, I thought about him today and especially some of his imprint on me at Christmastime. As you can see he did not have an extremely long lifespan. Given his hard work from a young age, my thought was it's a wonder he made it that long. He was a champion in our lives always, I mean always, putting his faith and his family first. He was a master carpenter and I remember how his hands were always rough. I used to go with him to work on repairs for some of the widow's houses. He was a deacon and saw that as his duty. At any rate, going with him informed me that I would not grow up to be a carpenter. I did not have the wherewithal to be good at it. When my dad suddenly passed away in January of 1954, mom and us six young children moved in with Granny and Paw Paw. They were not new to housing additional family at their place but having such a large brood was tough. For them and for us. However, my grandfather believed with all of his heart in Romans 8:28, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Therefore, he took us in and did the best he could with his changed life circumstance. Needless to say, at age seven, he became the 'father' figure in my life. What an example he was! He was not without experience in facing challenges in life. He left school with an 8th grade education and began logging to help his family. They lived off the land, killing the meat they ate and growing their own produce. He and Granny Mac had their clan of eight children. They lost their second child, a daughter, Seawillow, at age one. Paw Paw built her casket with his own hands. They endured the Great Depression. During WW2 he worked in Guam building housing for the soldiers stationed there. They sent two sons and two sons-in-law into combat during WW2, and another son to Korea during that conflict. His life was one of facing many adversities, too many to count, and some too difficult to even talk about here. However, while he never said he loved me, never, but, there was not one day of my life that I did not feel loved by him, not one. He didn't expect anything at Christmas because that's pretty much how he grew up, but, every Christmas he would make a special order through the local grocer for a wooden crate of raisins. I woke up this morning thinking about how special those raisins were to us kids, and, especially to me. Somehow, having those raisins each year, which was an above and beyond treat, well, it made Christmas a very special time. Before he left this earthly domain, I did get to honor him as much as I knew how to show my appreciation for all he had done for me. One fall, maybe a couple of years before he, like Clarence in the movie, earned his wings, (That's a joke. Why? Because for any human to become an angel would be a step down from a believer's position in Christ, trust me on that one.), Granny had told me he had become frustrated because he could no longer bring home the squirrels he loved to have her cook for him. His eyesight and his coordination wasn't as great as it had been in the past. I put him a goose gun, 36" barrel 12 gauge shotgun on layaway and gave it to him that next Christmas. Here is what he said when he opened it. "Now all I need is their name and address because I can use this gun to reach up into that tree and knock them down." That was our God loving Paw Paw Mac. So many who knew him told me over the years how that no one they knew lived out his testimony as much as my grandpa. They said this, "Mr. Mac was a man of his word and you could always count on him keeping it."  

A wee bit wordy but I am so thankful I have this memory of him at Christmastime. He loved the Savior who came into the world to save those who are lost, like you, like me, and yes, like him. Being a good man will not get anyone into heaven. Being a saved man will. I do hope you have some special memories that flood your heart at this time of year. May our Great God add His blessings is my prayer. Amen.

Happy 61st Wedding Anniversary to my bride, Proverbs 31, (New Living Translation), 28) "Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her: 29) 'There are many virtuous and capable women in the world, but you surpass them all!'”

Good morning and welcome. It is Thursday, December 18, 2025, and, this is one of those very special days for us, here at the ole blogger ranch. It is on this day, 61 years ago, that a very young lady, 17, stood beside a very young man, 18, and, we both answered in the affirmative in saying, "I do." As it typically turns out we have holiday related commitments and we will postpone an official celebration until the smoke clears on the season. Life goes on and this afternoon I will be at the medical facility having an ultra-sound done on my liver. I am not altogether clear, but given the long term intake of medications I think they are checking it for wear and tear. Oh well. Back to the subject at hand. Sixty one years. Our conversation these days often revolve around reminding each other to take our medications, double check our schedules, and, other similar reminding kinds of talk. One thing is certain. She remains a one of a kind and after all these years I continue to know in my heart of hearts how much I thank God for her because just like every year before, "Baby, you're the greatest!" 

I suppose I will need to prove my point by reminding her to read my blog since today's issue has her as the main subject. When people ask me about the secret to a long marriage I can only tell them what I know to be the truth, "Only by the grace of God." Not every day of our time together has been idyllic and we have no illusions about it all being a tip toe through the tulips where it all makes for a happily ever after experience. However, 61 years later and we are still at it. Making it work. Seeking God. Overlooking. That's right. A lot of overlooking, from both sides. Do we still know how to have a good fight? You betcha! I'm thankful they are not as frequent as they were at different times, however, that 'old man' nature is still around and at any given time, well, you do know what I mean, right Vern? My conclusion is this: I am blessed by God with the woman He placed in my life and I thank Him for her. Thanking Him daily for your spouse is a good way to have a healthy marriage. I just thought of that one and decided to pass it on. Y'all enjoy the day and I will now hurry back to studying for my liver test scheduled for this afternoon. Ha! Relax. It's a joke. May God add His blessings. Amen.

"If you see someone without a smile, give them yours." – Dolly Parton

This photo was taken with the Chick-fil-A cows at the annual Magnolia Education Foundation event a few years ago. 

Good morning and welcome. Today. I think I am reporting in as at least being able to climb the stairs and sit in the control chair here at the ole blogger ranch to participate in the keystroke manufacturing process, on this, Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Last night we, that is, Santa and Mrs. Claus, showed up at one of the Chick-fil-A locations, Hwy 99 and Rayford Road, and it was packed. Literally. They had advertised our appearance so we had a huge group waiting when we arrived. I think they call it a vibe but the entire eatery was buzzing with excitement as we came through the door. We always enjoy loving on so many different children along with their families. I mention the Chick-fil-A connection because it dates back to the very beginning of my Santa Enterprise journey some sixteen years ago and I will always be grateful for the local support given to us by Kendrick Skipper and the franchise staffs, Magnolia and Alden Bridge locations, who helped get us up and going and have supported us through the years. After finishing our time last evening, on our way home we decided to stop and get Chinese take out. I went into the location dressed as Santa. The folks there are from China and I've been there many times. I have tried to warm up to their young sons many times in the past to no avail. However, show up as Santa Claus and suddenly I am the star attraction. Those boys were so funny. They began hooping and hollering and singing Jingle Bells in their own broken English. The place is primarily for take out and there was a lady there waiting on her order. She greeted me as Santa. I responded back and told her that Santa was in the house to which she said, "Not only Santa but it's the real Santa." Okay. A little inside baseball here. If you portray Santa, well, hearing yourself mentioned as the real Santa, let me just tell you, it doesn't get better than that. Mrs. Claus doesn't think people are that interested in all the details of my life as the Jolly Old Elf, but, it's how it unfolded, therefore, it was mine to share, so I did. I did. I really did. Ho Ho Ho.

 

I also want to mention again how the Wise Men brought gifts to Jesus. They gave quite lavishly to the new born Messiah. (Many scholars connect their act of giving to our giving of gifts to each other at Christmastime.)  Jesus gave Himself up for us all, and, there are too many to mention proofs that people who are givers have a better time of it in life than those who choose not to give. Most people are familiar with Ebeneezer Scrooge from the famous story written by Charles Dickens, 'A Christmas Carol', first published in 1843. The Scrooge character has become emblematic of those who live life as misers, cold-hearted, and excessively focused on accumulating wealth while neglecting the welfare of others, and as in the story, lacking empathy especially around the Christmas holiday. Dickens was a champion of the underclass and those who struggled each day just to survive. We should not be surprised how much God has to say in His Word about these very issues. Here are fifteen that pretty much are random but they give some substance to why God wants His own to be givers because after all He so loved, He gave..... 1. 2 Corinthians 9:7 "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." ~ 2. 2 Corinthians 8:12 "For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have." ~ 3. 2 Corinthians 8:7 "But since you excel in everything — in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you — see that you also excel in this grace of giving." ~ 4. Luke 6:30 "Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back." ~ 5. Psalm 37:21 "The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously." ~ 6. 2 Corinthians 9:6 "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." ~ 7. Luke 3:11 "John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same." ~ 8. Deuteronomy 8:18 "But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today." ~ 9. Proverbs 3:9 "Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops." ~ 10. Acts 20:35 "In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" ~ 11. Matthew 6:19-21 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." ~ 12. Proverbs 3:27 "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act." ~ 13. Deuteronomy 16:17 "Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the Lord your God has blessed you." ~ 14. Leviticus 27:30 "A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord." ~ 15. Proverbs 21:25-26  "The craving of a sluggard will be the death of him, because his hands refuse to work. All day long he craves for more, but the righteous give without sparing." That's more than enough on that subject. May God help us all to please Him with the life He has given to us. Amen. 

Christmas Can't Be Far Away

Okay. Good morning and welcome. Today is Tuesday, December 16, 2025 and we are right smack dab in the middle of Christmas spirit swirling all around us. Well, maybe not that much swirling, but, I will confess I am a sucker for Christmastime with all comes with it. I continue to make clear to all concerned that I am not in the least bit uninformed about the Real Reason for the Season, the coming into our world as a baby born to a virgin, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I love all that relates to His coming, His life, His death, His resurrection, and, all that it means to those who respond to His offer of salvation that entitles one to live forever with Him in eternity future which begins when we are saved. Having made that clear, I also love the feeling of Christmas, the songs of Christmas, the chatter, even, the busyness that comes with getting ready to get ready. As for the music, wow! There's so much and I do love me some Christmas music. Some might think that since I am a professional Christmas entertainer, aka Santa, that's the reason I love this time of year. Not really. I loved Christmas long before I became Santa. I grew up, not always having a lot of stuff on Christmas Day, but, always and I mean always having it be a special time for our family. My mom actually did what that silly song says, "When you work your fingers to the bone what do you get? Bony fingers!" She did. She worked tirelessly because she wanted us to always know that Christmas was special and it always was. Back to the music. Many years ago I became a big fan of Eddy Arnold. He was a country music/easy listening singer, and, perhaps, one of, if not the, best of his time. Born in 1918, he began his music career on radio in the mid-1930's and recorded his last album in 2005 at age 87 just three years before his passing in 2008. Never heard of him? Yikes. What a shame. At one time I probably had at least 12 of his long play vinyl records which was only a fraction of those available. He recorded literally 100's of songs with 147 that charted. But, back to Christmas. I love his version of this song. In fact, I always desire to hear it as part of my remembrance. You can listen to it on YouTube.

 

Christmas Can't Be Far Away - Eddy Arnold, 1954

A neighbor tipped his hat to me this morning
The landlord even smiled and said, "good day"
And I want you to know a stranger said hello
Christmas can't be far away

Old tight wad down the street is buying candy
To pass out to the neighbor kids at play
The town is on the go
The weather man said snow
Christmas can't be far away

The small fry on our block have all been saving
And now they're hiding things and looking sly
Mom will get that special she's been craving
And dad'll get his usual Christmas tie

Both young and old are planning sweet surprises
They'll soon be tied with ribbons bright and gay
Good will is in the air, you'll feel it everywhere
Christmas can't be far away
Christmas can't be far away

Songwriters: Wayne Lamar Jackson / Roger Cook

 

Now back to the other things that keep us all occupied. You have your stuff and we have ours, but, somehow we all have our schedules full. With what? I do still have a blog to write about how we've all become so busy, and, there are reasons for it. I'll get that done one day when I get around to it. I do hope you have a great rest of today and always remember to remember how God is our provision, period, end of story. Amen.

“Memories are captured, not created.” ~ Shutterfly

This is Levi, four months old, third child of Josh and Amy. We watched Josh grow up in the Church we attended for many years. He is now an associate pastor and Amy is a nurse. We were so happy to have them in our home for some photo memories. Are we blessed? Or what?

It's a wonderful day in my neighborhood and I am thankful we finally got the thermostat correctly set so it would heat the place, if you know what I mean. Somehow and in someway, most likely being adjusted in the middle of the night in the dark, it got set to keep it at 62 degrees and with the outside temp at 32, well, 'Baby it's cold inside' was what we were singing this morning. It is Monday, December 15, 2025, and, I will say this about having that thermostat mishap, and, you can trust me on this one, "It's always something".  Mrs. Claus is sounding more and more like a broken record these days. "You don't know how to say no." (If you don't know the broken record reference, look it up. It's not only a good one it is a real one.) She is saying that because of the number of Santa events I have committed ourselves to for this season. She thinks they are wearing me out. I did feel a little spent this past Saturday evening but I am back to my regular 80% running efficiency. (I did not want to say 100% because that would be way over the top, for me.) She often tells me to remember my age. I did tell a lady that we may not be able to do her Santa customers next year and I thought she was going to cry, so what did I do? I told her we would wait and see and talk about it closer to the time. I glanced over and saw that look on Mrs. Claus' face. Yikes. Oh well, when I look at photos like the one of little Levi it makes me want to go on, and on, and on. That photo will most likely be around to cherish well after I have gone from this life to my heavenly home. And, it is only one of thousands I have been privileged to be a part of over these past 16 years. And, some of it has been so worthwhile. We received a note from a former Church friend who was a friend of a lady who has a severely Autistic son. This last Saturday we were able to spend some time with this young man in a special sensory sensitive room set up to minister to children with special needs. He made a few rounds around the room before coming over to Santa and Mrs. Claus. We felt so blessed to be there for her and her son. The note she sent went on and on about us, but, let me set the record straight, that mom is the true champion 24x7 lovingly mothering her son. We had ten minutes and we feel honored to have made a memory for them. I also think it is well to recognize the folks at the Magnolia Education Foundation for providing a space and time for us to be with special needs children on the day where we were busy all morning long in the main event center making 100's of photos.  

I think most know that we are members of Mims Baptist Church in Conroe. We both sing in the choir. We are members of a life group class that has this name: C.I.A., Christians In Action. I am privileged to be one of the teachers of this class. We have an outstanding staff at our local fellowship of believers. Our Senior Pastor, Dr. Jerry Chaddick, consistently presents the truth directly from the Word of God. This past Sunday he felt burdened to share a message regarding the urgency of being born again and heaven bound when one leaves this earth in death. He used the passage from Luke 16 where Jesus unveiled what happens when a believer dies and what happens when an unbeliever dies, the one about the beggar Lazarus and the unnamed rich man. Bro. Jerry acknowledged his message to be one that many would think out of place during a time of Christmas celebration, however, he brought the message anyway. Why? Because that was the burden God had placed on his heart. Heaven and hell. Two real places. Two real choices. And, let's face it, it was the Reason Jesus came. My point? I am thankful for our pastor who follows God's leadership in bringing the truth to the audience God knows all about to begin with. Who needed to hear that message? Anyone who was lost and anyone concerned about those who are lost. Not only those in attendance that day but all those watching or listening via different social media outlets wherever the internet takes that message. That covers a lot of territory and pretty much covers us all. Right? What say you? Until next time, may God bless each one. Amen.

"Don't complain about being unable to afford high-quality local food when your grocery cart is full of beer, cigarettes, and People magazine." - (Anonymous).

Hello and welcome. I am back from my short trip to Louisiana and it's always, yes, always, good to be back home again. I did not need John Denver's song to make me aware of this truth. If you don't get that reference, look it up. It is Friday, December 12, 2025, and, I hope today's edition finds you and yours doing well. Our President is touring right now to address the economy and all that his administration has done and is doing to deal with the cost of living. I voted for President Trump. I support many of the things he is doing. When it comes to the affordability issue, I agree with one of his critics who said something along these lines, "No amount of talking is going to convince someone they are better off when they are not seeing it or feeling it." I couldn't agree more. You can search for and find the official Consumer Price Index Summary online and while the increases have moderated compared to the previous administration, the bottom line is this: They are still increasing each month. I am glad he and his team have chosen to zero in on this issue as a top priority. Yes. I do remember he promised that prices would go down day one of his administration. Having just completed our journey to Louisiana and back, I can tell you the price we paid for gasoline meant those particular sellers had not gotten the memo yet about how it should be $2 or less. I do get the message of how bad it was before. Most people do not have to be convinced of that. However, the consumer is the one buying stuff. Duh! And, they will know they are better off when they experience it as they make purchases. I am willing to give the administration time to make progress in this area and I expect they will. I remain hopeful. No matter where you go, people vote based on the amount paid for the amount in the grocery cart. You know. "No thank you, I don't need the cart. I spent $185 but I can carry these two bags out in my hands."  

Well, enough of that because it is somewhat of a downer. For those of us who are Christ followers, we trust Him to take care of us. There is always the dynamic tension between needs and wants. Yes, even for believers. I was in a small group discussion one time when the leader asked if anyone had a specific prayer request for something they were dealing with in their life. In a very surprising move, an older lady, a proven believer, stood up and said she wanted prayer because she had become addicted to buying stuff online. She went on to say it had pretty much nearly cleaned them out financially. Don't get the idea that we who are believers can't get ourselves into a mess of trouble. I should know. Yep. The Bible tells us clearly that believers can fall into behaviors unsuited for their identity as children of God. Take the shepherd boy David for instance. He grew up and was proclaimed by God to be a man after is His own heart. Yet, he fell into sin that ended up in premeditated murder and while he was fully forgiven and restored back to right relationship with God, the horrific impact on him and his family continued long after his failure. Never tell anyone it could never happen to you. At the same time, God will never leave us nor forsake us and we can trust Him and His promises. (Deuteronomy 31:8 and Hebrews 13:5-6) He is always there for us and He desires us to have fellowship with Him. I say often and I say it again today, I am so thankful that He is willing to forgive and restore. Without the truth as given to us in 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.", where would I be? Amen? Amen!

"The future is something which everyone reaches at the rate of sixty minutes an hour, whatever he does, whoever he is." –C.S. Lewis

Hello and welcome to Wednesday, December 10, 2025. We are getting ready to get ready to leave on a field trip over to Louisiana where we will be in studio late this afternoon and at an elementary school tomorrow. We didn't go looking for these venues but they connected to us via word of mouth or in the school situation a distant relative of someone we know. Whatever. We will be gone for a couple of days, hoping to be back home late tomorrow evening. Hoping. The photo above was taken after we returned home from our annual Mims Baptist choir, orchestra, and media team Christmas party. That photo reminded me of one we had taken when we were dating in the early 1960's. Yep. And, you are right. That was a long time ago. (It's funny how younger folks today roll their eyes when you mention anything from way back in the 1900's. Ha!)

We didn't know at the time that red was going to become a very prominent part of our lives. But, that's the way it turned out. I'm pretty sure the only thing I could still wear in that photo would be the socks and shoes. She did, after all, become an excellent cook. She did. And, she still is. I carry the proof in this body of mine.  

I will likely miss a blog or two while we are doing our Santa thing. I would be remiss if I didn't mention how much we thank God for His provision and blessings in this season of our lives. He has been good to us even when we did not reciprocate as we should have. Sadly, for me, I identify more with the fellow in the account where he responded to Jesus, "I believe, help my unbelief." (Gospel of Mark, chapter 9, Verse 24) Y'all take care and remember to thank God for all He has done, is doing, and will do in the future. Yep. That includes for me and for you. You can count on it! Amen.

Here's an interesting Artificial Intelligence Overview: ~"Seeing people saved" refers to witnessing spiritual transformation, often through evangelism and living a Christ-like life, bringing joy to believers as individuals accept faith, a core Christian goal focused on rescuing people from sin and finding eternal life. It involves sharing the Gospel, prayer, showing compassion, and seeing others not just as people, but as "souls" with divine potential, a perspective requiring God's help to see past barriers like prejudice or perceived sinfulness. ~

Well, well, it is after all is said and done, another day, and one where we all have the opportunity to pause and thank God for it, and, for His provisions and blessings. It is Tuesday, December 9, 2025, and, I welcome you to today's visit. Our local fellowship of believers referred to as Mims Baptist, the choir and orchestra performed our annual Christmas musical this past Sunday evening. We had worked on the music for months. The program ended up being right at 2 hours. We had a variety of musical presentations, some great dialogue was shared, and, some of the selected songs made one feel the very presence of God Himself. They did. They really did. At the end of the music, it became quiet. Our Sr. Pastor, Dr. Jerry Chaddick came to the stage and he briefly shared who Jesus is and why He came. He asked people to consider their own life situation in relation to knowing Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. He did. He really did. There was a prayer and then those who prayed to receive Jesus were asked to raise their hands. A number of hands went up in the crowd of nearly 2,000 people. Now, let me put this way. This is what I'm talking about! Lives were changed for time and eternity. And, that my friend is what Bethlehem and Calvary are all about. If you in some way stumble upon this poorly written prose and you feel a need to know more about this Jesus who came to seek and to save sinners, just like me, and, yes, just like you. The truth: "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (Gospel of John, Chapter 3, Verse 16)  If you have interest it is the Holy Spirit of God speaking to you. Send me a response and I will do my best to answer or clarify any questions you have. Thanks be to God for His working among us. Amen.

 

I mentioned the other day how that I am feeling better this year about maybe keeping at it in the Santa program. Feeling better does not indicate the full situation in terms of wear and tear. We had a major event to attend coming up this next Saturday and they had some scheduling snafus, therefore, they said they were sorry but they needed to cancel. Did I feel bad towards them? Not in any way. I thanked them and wished them a Merry Christmas. They thought that was so kind, but, in reality, it gives us an entire Saturday to focus on not only recovering some but preparing for our family Christmas. Part of writing these blogs is sharing stuff that happens, yep, even to me. While I continue to feel better this year it does not mean I am free from being tired. Yesterday afternoon I was talking to our eldest son, Chris, on the phone, like I do every day, typically, on his way home from work. I'll cut to the chase. I fell asleep while I was on the phone. It turned out to be real funny because there was this long pause and I'm not sure but I think maybe he said "Hello, are you there?" There was some laughter on the part of those in the same area with me, and, I, like George Washington and the cherry tree, (which is most likely a made up story), mine isn't, I confessed that I could not tell a lie and told him that I had dozed off. He told me to rest up and we ended the call and I went back to sleep. I'm still feeling better this year. I am. I really am. But, I suppose age has its way of voicing its concern. Oh well, I'm mostly awake now and little Miss Biscuit is asleep in my lap. Y'all enjoy the season to its fullest while always knowing personally why those Wise Men fell down and worshiped. Amen? Amen! 

"Christmas is a togethery sort of holiday" said Pooh. "That's my favorite kind", said Piglet, "Togethery and Remembery". ~ A. A. Milne, 'Winnie the Pooh'

Today is welcome back Monday. It's beginning to look a lot like our version of busy for us, how about you? It is December 8, 2025, and, as is often said, time is getting away from us. We are wheels up and flying in our Santa program. To use a favorite word of our current President, we had ourselves a h-u-g-e good time with a major sub division Christmas gathering last Friday evening. On Saturday, we were for the 15th year, in the studio for scheduled Santa photos working with the incomparable Mindy Harmon. On Sunday evening, we were overwhelmed with the privilege and opportunity to sing in the 'I Believe' musical program for our local Church, Mims Baptist in Conroe. I've watched the program on YouTube and here's what I have to say about that. If I were you or anyone else I would run somewhere and find that program and watch it, period. Not because we are in it, but, it weaves together a wonderful thread of the story of our Savior and how He came to rescue us all. Amen. Today we visit with our granddaughter Danielle and her precious family. And, we pray for our granddaughter Amanda Faith who is having surgery today. Whew! Tomorrow morning, Mrs. Claus has her Christmas gathering for her weekly Bible study group. Tomorrow evening we have our choir and orchestra Christmas party. On Wednesday, Lord willing, we travel to Louisiana for some studio work in the evening. On Thursday, we are again at the Merryville, Louisiana High School for Santa photos. (In Louisiana, many of the schools are designated as high schools which includes all grades. We actually do photos with the elementary aged kids.) After the school event we return to Mrs. Claus' sister for some photos with friends and neighbors there. Returning to our home base, we rest up Friday, and prepare for a marathon day on Saturday and the beat goes on, all the way up to Christmas Eve. (About a dozen more events.) Let me pause to say this about our busy schedule, and, let me be very clear: It is only by the grace of God we are able to do what we do, especially at our age. We thank Him every day for the health and well being we enjoy which is necessary to do the Santa work we do. Oh, that's easy to do. I'm channeling our senior pastor, Bro. Jerry, in how he would respond to that, "Go ahead and suit up big boy and then get back to us on how easy it is!" Got it? Good.

 

In spite of our busy times, it's important for everyone to know that we never forget the True Meaning of this holiday where we remember and celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. The older I get it is the more I am stunned by God's plan to rescue lost and dying people, like me, like you, and, like every man, woman, boy, and girl. It's beyond me, but, I am so thankful He had it all mapped out, before the world came into existence. Right?  Here are some Key Scriptures: ~ Ephesians 1:4-6:"according as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself...". ~ John 17:24 (Jesus' Prayer): "Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world". ~ Revelation 13:8 Mentions the Lamb (Jesus) as "slain from the foundation of the world," signifying His atoning work was eternally planned. ~ Proverbs 8:22-31: Personifies Wisdom, saying "The LORD formed me from the beginning, before he created anything else," speaking to Christ's pre-existence and role in creation. I would direct anyone to the Gospel of John Chapter 1 to meditate on the true identity of the child born in Bethlehem so many years ago. I could mention more Scriptures about our Savior that are difficult to fathom or comprehend, but, I do thank God that through faith we can apprehend them and know they are the truth, the whole truth, and, nothing but the truth. Praise God. Amen.

"Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory." — Dr. Seuss

Good morning. Today is Friday, or, as those who end their work week call it, Fantastic Friday. This one shows up here as December 5, 2025. I've not always been the 'real Santa' like I am now. For the seventh year since writing this one back in 2007, I share it again. It goes way, way back. Yep. Back to the 1900's. Yikes. Remember, it was the 1970's and I was still young and inexperienced. It was the worst of times and the best of times, or, as we would say today, it was what it was, or something like that. Enjoy.

 

You have landed on a blog where an Oldie is being played. Hopefully, you will agree that it's also a Goodie.

Good morning and welcome to today's episode. It is a reprint from one I first published in my blog written in December of 2007. It was one that garnered a number of positive comments, therefore, I wanted to share it with you again. It reflects my recollection of a short story I wrote back in the mid-1970s. You will notice that me ever playing Santa again was not even a blip on my radar screen at that time. The short story was entitled: "Confessions of a Miffed Myth!" These are some excerpts as best I remembered them. (The actual typed story is stored in a box, somewhere.) Here it is:
                                                       

I've had quite a few jobs in my lifetime. They have ranged from being physically labor-intensive up to executive management. However, none were quite as interesting as the Christmas season of 1973. During that season I worked in the evenings and on weekends as a department store Santa. Yes, that is the Christmas stamp from 1973, and yes, it did cost 8 cents! I was actually hired by a temporary agency that supplied Santas to a variety of stores. They conducted one mass training session where we were told about the outfits and how to do the makeup, and then we were encouraged to read the poem, “Twas the Night Before Christmas”, by Clement C. Moore, to give us the idea behind the kind of Santa they wanted. I was assigned to a Sears store located in one of the area malls.

The store had set up a Santa Shop area next to their furniture department, and it was decorated with a large chair for Santa, all types of props, and it had a Polaroid camera to make instant photos for those wishing to buy a picture of their child with Santa. There were several of us who played Santa and a number of young ladies who dressed up as elves. These ladies worked the camera and operated the register. The Santa uniform, while uncomfortable and sweaty, was very nice and the beard very realistic. It was quite an ordeal to rush in from my regular job and undergo the transformation from an office worker to the Jolly Old Saint, and I did have to use a pillow for my tummy back in those days. There have been a few times over the years when I wouldn’t have needed one because I could have supplied my own, but that’s another story. Just so you know, I would not have to use one today!

Typically, I would work from 6 p.m. to store closing on the weeknights I was scheduled, and on Saturdays, I could work as many as 12 hours. This job might look like loads of fun but I will tell you from actual experience, it can be very, very difficult. The children, of course, were wonderful. And, you can put up with those that cry, and those who spit up on you, or the occasional accident that soils your suit. But, when you are dealing with THE PARENTS, and especially, THE MOMS, there’s little to no hope for any kind of enjoyment.

I want to mention a word about the music. The Jackson Five came out with a Christmas album in 1970 with many standards recorded in their memorable style. The songs were: 1. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas 2. Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town 3. The Christmas Song 4. Up On The House Top 5. Frosty The Snowman 6. The Little Drummer Boy 7. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer 8. Christmas Won't Be The Same This Year 9. Give Love On Christmas Day 10. Someday At Christmas 11. I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus. But there was only one huge problem: This was the only cassette our Santa Workshop had to play. I challenge anyone to listen to this music evening after evening and for 12 hours on Saturday without going postal! I guess the only thing worse I can think of is if it had been Alvin and the Chipmunks!

People showed up in droves and they were paying $2.50 for a special card with an instant photo of their child with Santa. Okay, we were not a portrait studio. It was a Polaroid camera! Hello? This was something that was obviously lost on many of the mommies who brought their children. They wanted the picture to be perfect which led to retakes, and log jams, and anger on the part of those waiting in line, and stress, and confusion, and chaos. There were times when I thought some of the moms were going to come to blows as they argued about their photos or their position in line. Believe it or not, some showed up to have twenty-five pictures made so they could send them out as Christmas cards. Now I ask you, who would think you might be able to keep a squirming kid posed for even one photo? It’s called insanity!

There were times whenever it got so completely out of hand I had no choice but to announce a timeout for Santa to go and feed his reindeer. (That’s what the sign said when I was on break.) If the children cried which many did, it was Santa’s fault. If the picture was bad, it was Santa’s fault. If the line was too long, it was Santa’s fault, and the list could go on and on and on. The last week before Christmas the store was open until 11 p.m. each night and I often pulled the entire Saturday shift by myself. Yes, we needed the extra money and we even have a photo of our boys taken with me, after we explained how I was only a helper because the real Santa was busy getting all the toys ready for them.

Despite these challenges, there were some moments that still stand out in my mind nearly 35 years later. I think about the little guy who wobbled up to me, trembling, as he brought all his old pacifiers in a bag to show Santa that he was kicking the habit. I remember the sad young ladies who came to take a photo for their boyfriend or husband stationed overseas. Then, there was that look in the eyes of children with disabilities as they had their moment with Santa. One night an entire high school Christmas party crew showed up for photos. Having a football player and his date sit on your lap was not exactly what I had in mind when I signed up for this work. And, THE CHILDREN. Santa is about children. Their innocence and their exuberant joy helped make an otherwise miserable experience one that still causes a warm glow in my heart, and brings a smile to my face. Here’s a final word straight from the old dude himself: "He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night!" Have a great day and may God add His blessings to it. Amen.    ……More later."