English Breakfast

Ever wonder what Santa eats for breakfast? Or what to do if you land on the naughty list? We asked Santa these questions, and a few more, as he was preparing to visit Thanksgiving Point for its annual Breakfast with Santa. The event will begin at 9 a.m. Dec. 7, 14 and 21 and will feature special guest stars Mrs. Claus, the Gingerbread Man and Buddy the Elf. Santa, who can be reached by mail at the North Pole or online at, shared the following thoughts about cookies, coal and his favorite kind of Christmas present.

How do we make sure we are on the nice list?

Santa: Ho, ho, ho! Well, most kids wonder this very thing. We do have ways to keep up with these things and most children do pass the test, some better than others. But to make sure you stay on the nice list I would suggest:

A. Help keep your toys picked up.

B. Try to help keep your room tidy by picking up your clothes and making your bed.

C. Be nice to your brothers and sisters if you have some.

D. Do your homework for school.

E. Most importantly, mind your mom!

What if we’ve done something naughty?

Santa: It happens even to the best of kids. You can always apologize and try harder next time. But if we continue to get reports, your gifts may be smaller and fewer, mostly socks and underwear. Don’t worry so much about getting coal. I do not do that anymore as it can make even teenagers cry.

How do you get into houses that don’t have chimneys?

On Christmas Eve I carry on my belt a set of very special chimney keys. When I approach the roof of each and every home, these keys know what to do, allowing me entrance to every needed home.

What’s your favorite type of present to give?

As you may imagine, I visit homes all over the world. Early on, children were happy with just candy, fruit or nuts in a wooden shoe or stocking. But as the years went along, gifts became much more complicated. Kids are now asking for electronic toys of all types, as well as items much bigger than my poor bag can handle. Have you ever seen what puppies or kitties can do to a bag? But the gift that means the most to me is something I often cannot give. Selfless requests from the mouth of a small child: “A new baby brother or sister.” “Bring Daddy home for Christmas.” “Make my mom better.” My heart goes out to these children, as these things are out of Santa’s ability. I can only leave them a blessing or prayer from my heart.