I was awakened by a familiar noise. A sound usually reserved for loud gatherings and raucous storytelling. Or even between the party-maker and his long-time patients. Why was my husband full-out belly-laughing at 6:30 in the morning, repeatedly — when the sun was still in bed yawning and deciding whether to shine?
He has the kind of laughter that fills a room — the familiar beacon of sound that let’s you know Steve Mangas is in the house.
Laughter like this could only mean: (1) he invited a troupe of comedians to perform for him in our living room at 6 a.m. (2) the Colts or his beloved Hoosiers were playing a close game and just pulled out an impossible play/win, or (3) he’s with some of his buddies or brothers telling outlandish stories.
What could bring my husband such joy that would be outwardly expressed in almost tears of laughter?
The multiple sections of the Daily Journal’s annual “Letters to Santa.”
He began reading them to me in between laughing so intensely he had to catch his breath and wipe his tears.
“One little boy wants a mug that says ‘World’s Best Mom/Dad” AND a fake lizard for his mom and dad’s stocking.” Bawhahaha.
“Oh’ this first–grader AJ is brilliant, he’s leaving Santa ‘hot cocoa and bacon!’ — bacon!” Steve noted with a tone of envy.
“Ah this Desi is a smart one, she wants a ‘trash can so everybody can throw their trash away at the door.’ (Inwardly I don’t know why he thought hers was humorous, Desi seems like quite a sensible and organized young lady.)
Steve continued reading and guffawing after grabbing a red marker like he was working a crossword puzzle and circling his favorite phrases.
“Did you know that I saw you putting presents in the living room on Christmas Eve when I was six years old?” asked Jonathan.
Another letter kindly reminded Santa that he left his coat in her living room last year.
But the letter that Steve read with a sweet voice until changing to a menacing tone in the last sentence was Eshan’s, a polite and honest second-grader.
“Dear Santa Claus,
How are you doing? And how are the elves doing? And how are the reindeers and Mrs. Claus doing? My year has been good, but sometimes I made mistakes. I cleaned the living room floor and did my homework, and other good deeds. I want tornado and hurricane toys. And most of all: I want to control time!!”
So here is my letter.
Dear Santa:
Thanks for bringing all these children (and adults) in Johnson County the gift of joy. Thank you for the surprises you always seem to deliver every year. I don’t really want to ask for anything else, unless of course, you decide not to give Eshan his desire “to control time.” Yea, I’ll take that.”
Merry Christmas and I hope you notice we left you bacon this year!
Janet
