The elves take children from their parents and plunk them down on Santa’s lap. I take their picture. Most times, the kids flash gap toothed smiles. Other times little Johnny or Susie cries. Every once in a while, some kid has a total meltdown. I’m talking complete nervous breakdown, the kind where snot goes flying and the hysterics are shrill enough to pierce eardrums. I have a theory about those wailers – they’re going to be the naughty ones. And they know that when they grow up Santa will be very unhappy with them…
