Dear Santa,

It’s that time of the year when I’m rushing so fast that one of these days I will bump into myself in the stairway!

Santa, I’ve been a busy mom all year. I’ve cooked four meals a day, fed or tried to but when it’s potatoes the kids want meat and when it’s meat … oh never mind! 

I’ve been a hugger, a listener (of stories without rushing even when the food starts smoking), a worrier (have been to the doctor more times than he possibly attended clinic), a driver, a tutor and a swimming coach.  

I write this letter with a crayon that I found in my jeans and on the back of receipts while I wait for the school bus to come, who knows when I’ll find free time again?

So dear Santa here is my wish list …..

I’d like a pair eyes at the back of my head, sharp ears that listen not to just what the kids say but also what they are deviously thinking to do next, extra strong legs that don’t ache after a day of hopping n running (in any colour, except black and blue, which they already are), arms that can do a 360 degree flip and are strong enough to carry a screaming child out of the toy store.

I’d like a waist since I lost mine somewhere in the midst of my pregnancy. 

I’d like furniture with fingerprint resistant polish, a television that doesn’t broadcast programs of Chota Bheem and a refrigerator with a secret compartment for the chocolates.

I need a talking doll that says, “Yes, Amma” to boost my confidence, along with one potty-trained toddler, kids who don’t fight over the same toys and clothes that go on and off them without it being a wrestling match. 

I think a recording of Buddhist chants, “Don’t drop the food” and ‘Pick up your toys” would help at a subconscious level.

A few Christmas miracles to brighten the holiday season. Could the porridge taste like ice cream and the paratha like pizza? 

One last super request, can you give me an additional pair of hands? Uhh ho … that would make me look so uncool, could you remind my better half to use his hands to give me a hands down, instead of being the stranger-who-walks around the home.

Well, Santa, the school bus is around the corner and the crayon is now a stubble. Moreover, I’ve used all the receipts in my bag and the fresh tissues I had. 

Have a safe trip and drive carefully! There are cookies on the table but don’t eat too many or mess up the table. A big pat and sugar cubes for the reindeers! 

In anticipation, Mom.

PS: Of course, you can cancel my requests if you can keep my children young enough, long enough to believe in Santa and loving enough to give me a big hug before bed! 

Inspired by prayers and letters from Moms globally