Christmas as holy day and a fun-filled holiday touches the hearts of people everywhere. Children especially are drawn to the festivities as they write letters to Santa Claus, decorate trees, and leave cookies and milk under the tree for the jolly fellow. Many sleighs full of children's letters to Santa are addressed to him at the North Pole. Others are sent to such places as Santa Claus, Indiana, and Santa Claus, Georgia. Santa Claus, Georgia has streets with names such as Candy Cane Road, Rudolph Way, Dancer Street, and Sleigh Street. An interesting project for homebound residents could be to answer some of the letters from tots that find their way to the local post offices. The thought of little eyes lighting up from receiving an answer from Santa will brighten even the dreariest of days.

In 1912, Postmaster General Frank Hitchcock authorized postmasters to allow individuals or institutions to use Santa Claus' letters for philanthropic purposes. Interested parties should contact their Post Offices to respond to the letters.

A fun trip during the holidays
This year in Santa Claus, Indiana, a unique landmark has reopened. The Candy Castle, originally sponsored by the Curtis Candy Company, creators of Baby Ruth and Butterfinger candy bars, was known as Santa's home. It housed a wood shop where Santa could be watched making toys.

Today the new castle, which is free to the public, has found new life. The Candy Castle includes a Gallery of Santa Claus History and a large selection of gourmet candy canes. Kids have the opportunity to sign Santa's Good Book (but only if they've been good!) or drop a letter to Santa in "Santa's Post Office."

Postal officials caution that candy canes and cookies for Santa as well as hay for his reindeer should not be mailed as they may be crushed. Such treats should be left under the tree on Christmas Eve.