A Visit to Santa’s Workshop

For Beverly Cannon, Christmas shopping was never just a mere trip to the mall. It was an experience!

Each December, Beverly would bundle up, put on her most comfy ‘all-day walking’ shoes, and head out bristling with excitement. Alone or with a friend, she spent hours strolling through the brightly decorated stores, as holiday tunes swirled in her ears, in search of the perfect gift for loved ones.

By the time Beverly returned home, she was always overflowing with Christmas spirit. Shopping was almost as fun for Beverly as Christmas day. Almost…. But, this year, debilitating illness threatened to prevent Beverly from taking her beloved holiday excursion.

Not a chance – Crossroads could not deny the elf inside and made sure that Beverly made it to the mall once more.

Just like the old days, the stores were bedecked in red and green and buzzing with Christmas classics. The fresh scent of evergreen wafted from the giant, well-lit tree inside. Beverly took it all in. Best of all, she was joined by her granddaughter as they meandered from store to store – Macy’s was a must! They stopped briefly for lunch but went right back at it. With the love and generosity of St. Nick, Beverly wasted no time carefully selecting gifts for everyone on her list.

Then, a handsome man suddenly appeared – and Beverly was instantly smitten.

Wearing a red velvet suit, Santa waved Beverly over to him. Naturally, he asked what she wanted for Christmas, and Beverly whispered something in his ear. They talked and giggled, and finally posed for the camera. The photographer graciously provided a photo keepsake that they would always treasure.

So, what did Beverly ask Santa for Christmas? Nothing – Beverly had all that she wanted right there, that day, at that moment…so she just whispered a sincere, tear-filled “thank you, Mr. Claus.”