The First and Best Christmas Gift by Regina Brown

A fitting depiction of the first and best Christmas gift – Santa Larry and Mrs. Claus kneel before the King

PHOTOS by CRYSTL’S PHOTOGRAPHY

The First and Best

Christmas Gift

by REGINA BROWN

It’s nothing new for Larry Blair and Daneta Combs-Blair of Deer Creek to honor the birth of the Savior this time of year. They delight in spreading joy and the spirit of Christmas, as is illustrated in this month’s cover photo.

he couple happily agreed and genuinely enjoyed the opportunity to shoot the unique cover for photographer Crystl Percell, whose idea aligned with their mission. Crystl’s idea came to life as she cre-T ated the touching and memorable scene of Santa Larry, his wife, Daneta as Mrs. Claus, and baby Lily portraying the Christ child lying in a manger. Notably absent are the other figures customarily seen alongside the nativity. A typical depiction of Santa Claus seen at the North Pole with reindeer and elves was replaced with the ever jolly character in a red suit, his wife by his side, humbly kneeling before the infant wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger. The photo is a beautiful illustration and reminder that “...at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:10-11

Santa Larry and Daneta embody the same attributes as the St. Nick and Mrs. Claus depicted in this photo.

They recognize who they represent and honor their role as the only face of Christmas that some may see. That opportunity allows them to be able to spread the light of Christmas and the joy this season brings. They enjoy bringing smiles to faces and happiness to hearts. The grandmotherly love and kindness of Mrs. Claus draws in little ones who are fearful of St. Nick, and Santa Larry has the privilege and unique opportunity to hear and listen. They represent giving and sharing. Together, they are ambassadors of goodness and goodwill.

This will be the twelfth year Santa Larry has been donning his Santa suit and spreading Christmas cheer across our state. When he and Daneta married in 2017, she was the perfect addition to join him as Mrs. Claus.

While neither set out to assume these roles initially, timing, opportunity, and little help from Santa Larry’s sister, the Christmas stars aligned and the magic of Christmas took over.

Together, they have been able to serve in this capacity to children of all ages in a multitude of places including churches, schools, hospitals, malls, in homes, in parades, and on zoom to as far away as Costa Rica.

Santa Larry and Daneta count themselves blessed to be able to spread love and joy and encourage others to become involved with the loving, caring, and compassion that this season encompasses. Their enthusiasm was apparent as they spoke of how they consider this to be their ministry as they share the beauty of the season and share the true meaning of Christmas.

They participate in activities year round and with the talents of Santa Larry’s sister, even have warm weather attire fitting for the most recognizable characters from the North Pole. They book events nearly a year in advance as most invite them to return the following year to brighten and enliven their next event. They are beloved for their joy and embodiment of Mr. and Mrs. Claus and plan to reprise their roles as one of the most loved couples of the Christmas season for years to come. n

BIA

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