From Chesapeake Bay to Christmas Day

As I arrive in North America after finishing my rounds through Europe and Africa, I feel a renewed energy despite the long night. It’s like entering the 4th quarter of the Super Bowl—this is where I need to bring my A-game. After all, I only get to do this once a year. North America holds a special place in my heart; it’s where I grew up, and I want to make this journey through the country extra special.

Coming into North America, we start at the Chesapeake Bay. Believe it or not, this route is all about efficiency. The Chesapeake Bay allows me to cover several major cities along the East Coast before heading inland. From above, the body of water looks absolutely breathtaking as we approach from the Atlantic Ocean.

Our first major stop is Washington, D.C. From the bay, you can spot the iconic Washington Monument. Typically, I skip right over the White House since there hasn't been a child there since the Obama family lived there. We breeze through D.C., heading towards Baltimore next.

Baltimore has a new sense of hope and joy these days—it’s a bit nicer than it used to be. There are two sisters here, Alexis and Lyla. Although they're getting older, they still hold onto some belief in Santa. For Alexis, we left a Mexico soccer ball, and for Lyla, the artist, we gifted a blank-style comic book that she can fill with her own stories. I hope they still believe next year—teenagers can be tricky that way.

After finishing most of Maryland, we hop over to the first state in the Union, Delaware. I’ve said it before—Delaware is full of pride. Despite being a small state, it has a big heart. I love the quiet beach of Lewes, Delaware—it’s the perfect spot for a toddler to play in the ocean.

I’m still learning every house and every child, so I might not be as swift as the last Santa, but I always make sure that no one is missed.

Now, living in Delaware is Jennifer, an 8-year-old girl who is an avid cat lover. Her two cats, Fiori and Macaroni, have been her best friends since she got them at the age of four. These two cats follow little Jen everywhere. In her letter to me this year, Jennifer wrote, "I love my cats so much that I'd rather them have a cool cat house for my bedroom than anything else. I don't need toys or dolls, just things for my cats. When they’re happy, I’m happy." At the end of the note, she added, "P.S. I still like toys and dolls too."

Well, Jen, I heard how great of a job you’re doing taking care of your two cats. They’re well-fed and love to sleep in your bed. I made sure the elves, Larry and Jerry, crafted an easy-to-assemble cat tree fort with multiple levels for scratching, napping, and hiding. We also included a new doll, complete with two cats, to go with it. I hope you have a very Merry Christmas, honey. See you again next year.

Now, I’m preparing for some major cities coming up: Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York are next on my list. I still feel a sense of excitement as I look forward to the unique experiences each child brings to my heart. These are the moments and memories that count, and I’m ready to give it my all.