Santa Claus and the Economy

I sat the nine year old and the twelve year old down the other day to have a talk about Santa Claus with them – no, not that talk – the one that involves the economy.  I explained how the economy is bad and how Santa will not be bringing a lot this year.  They know about the economy because Ed and I are always talking about it and how bad it is. 

The twelve you old, bless his little heart, said he got it and not to worry.  He hasn’t told me he knows about Santa yet but I’m pretty sure he’s figure it out. . .

The nine year old said nothing.  Now, those of you who are familiar with the nine year old girl  – know that silence is always trouble and cause for worry.  If either of my children devise an evil plan to take over the universe, it’s not going to be the boy . . . it will be the girl for sure and it won’t be pretty for the rest of us.  I don’t know who she takes after.

Yesterday, she lowered the boom. 

Girl – “Since the economy is bad shouldn’t Santa help parents out by bringing more gifts instead of less?  After all, he’s magical . . . unless you’re really Santa Claus.”

She peered unblinkingly into my eyes, looking for a tell tale twitch, a dilation of my pupils, anything really, trying to make me crack.  Sweat started to bead on my upper lip.

Me – “I know it seems like it should work that way, but Santa has a lot more kids this year then he ever has before to deliver toys to.”

Girl – (deeply suspicious) “Why.”

Me – “Because a lot of parents need his help this year, who have never needed it before, because of the bad economy.”

Silence.

Not good.  That answer was total crap but I couldn’t think of anything else.  I’m afraid to go home . . .