How did you discover Santa’s true identity?

For me, it happened at 8-years-old.

I sat on my knees and stared at the treasures piled under our tinsel-filled tree.

I investigated the gift tags to formulate my unwrapping plan. I grabbed one from Santa first — Mrs. Claus gave the best presents and I liked to save the best for last.

Weird. Mom’s handwriting looks like Santa’s.

I pulled a big box from the back signed “Mrs. Claus.” Same handwriting.

I ran to the kitchen for answers.

“Are you Mrs. Claus?”

She stopped washing dishes and stood still.

“Mom!”

She shut off the faucet, grabbed a clean bowl and thrust her dishtowel inside it.

“Don’t be silly.”

She avoided eye contact.

“Then why does your handwriting match hers? And Santa’s?”

Mom sighed and tossed the checkered dishrag over her shoulder.

“Well I’ll be damned.”