A little bit of Christmas magic dissipated like smoke from the chimney last night. My two oldest now know for certain that Mrs. Claus is … me.
My heart actually felt anxious as the confession unfolded, and I had to fight back an unexpected urge to cry.
They both took the news in stride, and they are taking seriously their charge to keep the magic alive for their little brother … at least for a few more years.
The middle one made a very astute remark when he noted: “That’s why you said that Santa doesn’t always buy us expensive stuff we ask for.” (This is the same child who once pointed out that Santa doesn’t need money, b/c his elves can make whatever he wants.)
When asked why he thought parents would pretend to be Santa for their kids, the older one paused for a second and then said, “Because they love them.” [insert choking up again here]
Now that I’ve had some time to swallow the bittersweet pill, I feel a great sense of relief that they know. We had never planned to lie to them; we always said that when they started asking questions, we’d tell them the truth. It was time they knew. What’s most important, though, is that I know they know the real meaning of Christmas, too.
faith, sweat & tears 
From the North Pole;
Dear “Mrs. Claus No. 13426”,
Please know that our records inform us that you have leaked valuable information to the children under your roof. As a representative of Mrs. Clause you are to keep these issues under wraps. It is understandable that you must be honest with your children, but keep in mind that Mrs. Claus No. 1 is still watching. Please tell your boys to behave themselves so they may remain on Santa’s “Nice” list.
Sincerely,
Jangle Flake, Elf 1st Class
Dear EFC Flake,
I had no idea that elves were reading my blog, or else I would have been more careful to use spell check in my first posting.
Rest assured that my boys have been read the Riot Act concerning their behavior and are — as of today — still on the Nice list, to the best of my knowledge.
Thank you for your correspondence. Please be careful in the workshop … I’d hate for one of your pointy ears to get caught in the machinery!
Warmly yours with marshmallows on top,
Mrs. Claus #13426