“They do?”
Jasper nods and slowly smiles. “For example, he starts by saying how the person’s sentences are uncensored and when they laugh, the clouds in the sky seem to disappear.”
“Oh, Jasper, you’re too sweet.”
His cheeks get some red in them after our eyes meet. “Yeah, well, so are you.”
Outside, the snow starts falling in a soft, gentle flurry around us. Jasper doesn’t even bat an eye as he keeps his focus forward. Thank God it’s him driving, as I wouldn’t have trusted myself behind the wheel on these icy roads.
We arrive at our destination after a surprisingly short ride, and the Santa Claus Village is everything I imagined it would be. The air is crisper than in Helsinki, and the snow sparkles in the sunlight. The trees are decorated with lights, and people walking around the premises seem happy, even if it’s snowing. The village is bustling with activity, with children laughing and playing in the snow and adults holding cups with steam coming out.
As we walk around, Jasper takes my hand, and a jolt of electricity shoots through my body even through the layers. The way I react to this man should be illegal.
After visiting a few shops and buying souvenirs, we make our way to the main building that advertises Santa being there. Once inside, we walk to the counter to speak to one of the workers.
“Welcome to Santa Claus Village, the home of Santa, where you can experience the magic of Christmas every day of the year! How can I assist you?” the young woman dressed as an elf exclaims, her smile genuine.
“We’re looking for Santa,” Jasper replies with a smile of his own. “Do you know where to find him?”
“You’re in the right place. Just follow the line there, and you’ll meet Santa Claus in his office space.”
Jasper starts walking away when I turn to the elf, asking, “How much is it?”
She waves her hand dismissively. “Oh, it’s free of charge! Santa Claus is the nicest man in the world and loves spending time with his friends of all ages from around the globe.”
“Thank you,” I tell her and follow Jasper.
The wait isn’t bad, only close to twenty minutes before we’re the next group to enter the room. The walls are covered by artwork and letters, most featuring Santa or his elves. It makes me nostalgic as I remember drawing something similar more than once growing up.
“Are you nervous?” Jasper whispers as I feel my body shaking in anticipation.
“No, just hyped up. I had no idea my reaction would be this strong. But I’m meeting the real Santa!”
He chuckles, wrapping his arm around my middle before bringing me in for a kiss. “I love that I get to be here to witness this moment.”
When the door to Santa Claus’ office opens, and another elf motions us to walk in, I can barely move. Jasper nudges me forward, his hand on my lower back as we enter the larger room.
And that’s when I spot him—Santa.
He’s exactly as I always pictured him—he has a big, round belly, a long white beard, a bright red suit, and laugh lines apparent on his face. His eyes crinkle when he sees us, and he beckons us over.
Jasper greets him first in Finnish and then switches to English. “This is Vivian and I’m Jasper.”
“Welcome, welcome, dear children,” he replies. “What brings you to my humble abode?” His voice is deep and friendly, putting me instantly at ease.
“We wanted to come and say hi,” Jasper tells him. “And maybe ask for a small belated Christmas wish.”
“Of course, young man, of course. What is it that you want?”
Jasper motions to me before speaking, “Vivian here has been waiting to meet you, so we need a photo together.”
“Yes, that’s a great idea.”
The same elf who let us in appears from the back, holding a camera, and asks if they can help. Jasper says yes, and we get closer to the big guy in red, who makes me feel like I’m a kid again.
Santa pats his lap and tells me, “Don’t worry, I’m used to having children of different ages, also those older than you, sitting on my lap.”
It makes me relax, and I do as he says. Jasper stands beside the chair and puts his arm over Santa’s shoulder. We all smile widely when the elf takes a photo that can be bought near the exit.
