December 16, 2003 Brian Johnson 2345 Whitmore Ave. North Hampton, MA 01060

Dear Brian,

I was just out in the shop working with the elves, and decided to take a break to write a special letter to you. Brian, you have been a very good boy this year! It's great that you are such a good listener and are nice to your cats, Tom and Ginger. That is very important. And so is all the work that you do! Every time you happily pick up your toys and share with your sisters, I really take notice! A boy who gives with a happy heart goes straight to the top of my list. It is a big help to your parents when you are cheerful.

I also see you learned to write your name and numbers and are learning all the colors this year. That is wonderful! You should really be proud of yourself. This was a big year for you. And to think you are only 4 years old.

Christmas is a wonderful time of year isn't it, Brian? The holiday season is my favorite. All the lights and decorations around North Hampton are pretty. And of course it is fun to get lots of presents. I am lucky to be able to travel around the world and see all of the fun things people do to celebrate Christmas.

I was just eating breakfast with Mrs. Claus this morning (she is always trying to fatten me up) and we were talking about how much fun it is to give gifts to so many good boys and girls around the world. I feel like the luckiest person in the world to be able to do that. Giving is so much more fun than getting, don't you think? But did you know, Brian, a gift isn't always a package tied up with a bow. Sometimes the greatest gift is just telling someone how much you love them or giving hugs or even seeing the way your hazel eyes sparkle, when you smile. So remember to show Jessica and Sarah you love them. And give your mom and dad a hug the next chance you get.

Well, Brian, I better get going. I still have lots of work to get ready for Christmas! Mrs. Claus is handing me another cookie. I'm going to take some cookies to the elves at the workshop and wax my sleigh for my trip to your house. Keep being the wonderful, unique, creative boy that you are. And always remember, I love you.

Merry Christmas!