END OF THE ROAD

The end of the road for this Santa – he has finally retired after long years of faithful service to the family Giorgio.
Yes, that is me dressed for the last time as Santa Claus to give presents at Christmas Night, particularly to Max, my youngest grandson. I’m not sure if the happy mood is because of the whiskey, or because it would be the last time, or, and most probably, because I was happy to see all the family gathered around our dining room table to celebrate yet another Christmas.
I, actually, didn’t want to dress up this year because Max who will be 7 years old in January had figured out who Santa that came to my house was and he was insisting it was me. But, in the end I gave in to the urges of my son-in law and we had a great time. The Santa outfit which I had bought from a local pound shop and which had served me so faithfully during all these years has already been done away with. Now, I somehow am sorry that another phase of our life is gone.
Many thanks for all your views, comments and favs. Always much appreciated.

[Dianne]

What a sweet story.

[Connie Little]

Wonderful memories attached to that Santa suit. A very happy image.

[Diana]

Fabulous memories.

[Margo]

Well you had great fun while it lasted

[Maggiemae]

Yo Ho HO and a glass of good whisky - the essence of Christmas!

[Chris K]

such a happy Santa. I think he will be missed

[Babs]

Happy retirement Santa.

[Denise Wood]

Santa can never retire!!!!!

[Sapphire]

i'm sure that you have made the world a happier place and it is time to pass it to someone else, well done for your service :)

[Sheralee S]

Before you know it there will be great-grandkids and you will wish you didn't throw out the suit ;)

[sally agnew]

What fun you must have had over many Christmases :)

[Ivan]

Happy Santa! Happy retirement! :)

[Kerri]

Awesome shot

[Islandgirl]

Great tradition...............Enjoy your retirement Dione!

[mittens (Marilyn)]

Ho, ho, ho, Santa. This is such a great shot to remember your Santa years. Enjoy your retirement.

[Beryl Lloyd]

Ho ho ho -- What a lovely time you must have had over the years ! -- great tradition Dione to remember and cherish ! And what will next Christmas bring ? -- whatever will be , will be !

[Margaret Brown]

A lovely story.... a happy conclusion and retirement!

[gloria jones]

Such a jolly Santa...I'm sure you have many fond Christmas memories.

[Chris H]

Wonderful happy photo, enjoy your retirement Santa cheers. 🎅🥂

[carol white]

Great fun memories

[Carole Sandford]

Hope you enjoy our retirement, shame, as you like a very jolly Santa!

[Pyrrhula]

They say: after you retirement a second life is starting. Hold on that. Happy New Year.

[Suzanne]

You are the jolliest Santa I have seen Dione! Happy retirement :)

[Phil Howcroft]

ho ho ho dione, an end of an era , reflected in your lovely narrative

[Richard Hickey]

Cool picture.

[Cathie]

What a sweet story, Dione -- and I sure love this picture! So jolly!

[Diane]

Wonderful photo and story. You are a great Santa!

[Gayle]

Oh, that is so wonderful! I love this photo of you, Santa...especially holding the glass of whiskey! Happy retirement! :-)

[Harry J Benson]

you make a great Santa

[Taffy]

Such a poignant narrative and 'selfie'. Very cute, and a wonderful tradition.

[Dinah Pinkston]

How wonderful that you were able to be Santa for your family -- and that you are now getting a well-deserved rest from the role! This is a very nice pic and narrative to help you remember this poignant time.