The End of the Magic ~

 I knew it would come some day...but i was sad just the same when we had "THE" conversation last night in the car on the way home.
  I saw the signs this last Christmas...Jordyn seemed a bit unsure... not wanting to show enthusiasm or inquire about Santa, she was one of the last kids to take her photo with him at the Winter program at school (in fact i wasn't even sure if she would sit for a photo at all), and she had a lot of questions.  However, we made it through the holidays, and i figured the curiosity was gone for now.
 But recently she began asking questions again, and Justin told me about a conversation they had in the car last week...so when she asked me in the car last night on the way home, i figured it was time.
 After several leading questions, she asked me if i was the one that put the Doctor Who bed set under the tree or if Santa did.  I asked her if she would be upset if it was me, to which she replied, no.  Well after thinking it over in the car, and with tears rolling down my face, i decided it was time to let her in on the secret.  She did not seem mad or sad...a bit disappointed at first perhaps...but then she started to think about it and that unearthed all kinds of new thoughts and questions.  One of the first things she said was, " that means you and dad actually bought me the tablet last year for Christmas...that was expensive".
  I told her parents share the magic of Santa with their children because it's a wonderful memory from their own childhood and we all like to carry on the tradition.  I also told her that in many ways there really is a Santa, as the spirit of Santa is alive and well during the holidays when people donate gifts to toys for tots or other organizations, anonymously giving gifts and sharing the magic with those less fortunate.
  It was weird having this conversation with my daughter, as i never had this discussion with my own mom.  I just sort of figured it out one year, but never said anything to her, and that is how it has always been :)  But i am glad that Jordyn and i had the conversation, and i hope that she is too.
  My mom never liked to talk about difficult things, in fact, she still doesn't and avoids them at all costs, however, i think its important to answer questions when kids are truly ready for the answer.  I don't believe her way is wrong, i just want to be very open with my daughter.
  Then we discussed how it was her turn to share the magic of Santa to others by not giving away the secret to friends and little ones at school, so that they could continue to enjoy the spirit of Santa as well.  Besides, no one wants to be the one to ruin that magic!  Also, i jokingly told her that kids that didnt believe in Santa only got underwear and socks!  So alas, its the end of the magic...but perhaps the beginning of wonderful new things!