Holiday Memories and Letters to Santa

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Letters to Santa

These letters from children all over the Southern Illinois area have been sent to Santa Claus thanks to the

We have the best beds in town for a deeper, darker tan in less time so you spend less money!

generosity of the various businesses found within these pages.

Through their financial support of this yearlong project, area under-privileged children will have a Merry Christmas!

529-TAN1

Happy Holidays from Your Friends at 833-2129

161 E. Vienna St.

ANNA

457-0309

997-5211

542-2777

435-3900

CARBONDALE MURPHYSBORO MARION

DuQUOIN

BENTON

610 E. Main St.

687-4525 1801 Walnut St.

Westmore Shopping Ctr. 417 S. Washington

702 W. Main

2

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Hey, are you and your family well? Is the reindeer doing well?

Since I have been good this year I hope I am on the good list. I would like a Bakugan Wii video game, Devistator Transformer, Bakugan and cards, Star Wars the Clone Wars Republic Gunship, and Shadow ARC 170 Fighter Ship. P.S. I have a baby cousin, Jasper, and he is too small to write his own letter so I am writing it for him. He has also been good this year so he would like any soft sports toys and anything fun and educational. Thanks.

Love, Jasper

www.thesouthern.com

THE SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2009

For Christmas, I want some more clothes for my fancy nancy doll. I have been a good girl this year.

Love, Victoria S.

Hi, how have you been? Is your family doing well. Since I have been good this year just for you I hope I am on the good list. I would like money for Christmas so I can pick out all the presents I would like to have.

P.S. I have a baby cousin, Caidence, and she is too small to write her own list so I am writing for her and she has also been good this year. She would like anything Elmo and especially an Elmo I want a Xbox 360, a laptop and Little People DSI, a couple play cars. toys. Thanks.

Love, Alexis S. I also want a lava lamp, a cell phone to be able What I would like for to see Grampa Michael, Christmas is a starving kids to get trampoline, puppy, food, more kids to go to shoes, and a designer school and for the kit.

Swine Flu to go away.

From: Kareli R., Age 11 P.S. Christmas is one of my favorite holidays.

I want a bike. A Fear Love, Dakota B., Age 9 Real bear. I want some littest pet shops. I want I want a bike. I want a a Easy bake oven. I xBox. I want a game want a dog and a system. I want a cars. I puppy. I want a cat. I want a car. I want want paper. I want some cars. stickers. I want a DS. I Cody R., Age 7 want cat toys and Dog toys for my cast and I’ve been a little bad, dogs. Thank You. Have a but I won’t be anymore. great Christmas.

I would please like an Brenda F., Age 8 XBox 360, a Black and Maroon Saluki football, All I want is more a #31 Saluki football, a people to join our new grand trismo game reading group and for a psp, and a great Soare R.C. Plan and a Christmas. If you do I train to go around the will get you something tree and a rc boat and good to eat. a rc motor powerd car From: Noah S. and people to respect me at school and to My name is Andrew B. help my mom with mony I have been a good boy to help pay bills and no this year. I would like a more then that.

Polar Express (Lionel) From Isaiah F., Age 10 train set, a bumble Bee Transformer, a rocket I would like a new ship toy, Race Car, book. I would like you to Robot and Lincoln Logs. bring my dad some My Dog Otie would like a soda. My grammy needs toy too. See you on a new chicken. I have Christmas! been good this year Andrew B. and would like to see Hello Santa! How are some snow this year, maybe a new 4 wheeler you and the reindeer doing this year? I am so to play outside with.

Love, Kayla H., Age 4 excited its almost Christmas. My name is Trenton and I am 3 I’ve been good this year. As you can see on years old from my letter I am writing to Tamaroa, Illinois. My mommy says I’m the you. I like to draw, so please get me a sketch sweetest little boy ever, book. I would also like a so I’m hoping you’ll remember me on personal pyramid.

Love, your pal, Christmas. I really want Coy H., Age 3 a new Tonka Bicycle and helmet come Christmas Morning. I What I want for would also like some Christmas is a DSI, New Nintendo DS Xbox, Dogs books. games, trucks and cars, Thank you.

Abbey B., Age 8 motorcycles, nerf guns,

Peace and Joy to All! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! from Health Care of Carbondale

500 South Lewis Ln. Carbondale, I L

Rudolph help you lead you’r way in the night sky? I have been good this year. Would you please bring me Skreature and the black and red trio castle and Here’s what I want for my sister a slime stuffed Christmas. 1. Candy, 2. cat. I will leave cookies Awesome Socks (Funky, and milk.

Curtis B., Age 8 ect.), 3. Shoes (my style), 4. DS games I would like a real (Mario Sonic Winter horse that I can ride Games and more), 5. and take care of her.

Clothes (pants, shirts, Love, Makayla Rae ect.), 6. Acsesories (my styles.), 7. Purses, 8.

I want a Barbie with a Dress (my styles.), 9.

Barbie House. A play Snow Board!!!, 10. puppy and a pretty Sunglasses, 11. twilight (bag, poster, julry, shirt, dress for me to play in.

Love, Jaysie ect.), 12. movies, 13. music CDs, 14. purfume.

I would like a blow gun 15. Books, 16. Bookmarks, 17. Funky pens, 18. A new and a game to play on my very own new TV walet (my style), 19. the with games. house to sell, 20. every Hunter one to be happy.

Merry Cristmas, My name is Maya and Gabby R., 12 yrs.

I am 2½ years old. I I am Jeremiah and I’m have been good I think.

5 years old. I would like Please bring me a for you to visit on bicycle and a race car.

Christmas. I’ve been a I will leave cookies and pretty good boy all milk out for you and year, just ask my 2 cereal for the reindeer. brothers and 4 sisters.

Please bring my bubby, They have been fairly Lucas, a race car and good too. I would like my sister Gracie a race Star war or Star Trek car and my sister Cassie action figures, Handy a race car. Also I would Manny toys, Nerf toys, like you to bring my acoustic guitar, guns, mommy and daddy a stocking full of candy airplanes, board games, race care, too. Thank and any thing else you and anything else you you! think I’d like. I’ll leave Love, Maya would like to bring me. you some thin mint P.S. I’ll leave you milk cookies and chocolate and cookies.

First I want to ask you milk by the Christmas Jeremiah W. how many Elfs live with Tree to enjoy. Could you and Mrs. Santa you also remember to My name is Josh and Claus at the North Pole? bring something I’m 9 years old. How is it Also I have been being fabulous for my big going at the workshop? pretty good this year. I sister Shiann. She is the I’ve been really good think you’re the BEST sister anyone this year, although my 4 Greatest. I have been could ever as for; I love sisters and 2 brothers doing very good in her. Thank you Santa! might disagree. I would School also. I know you Waiting Patiently, like a remote control to visit the whole world Trenton car, nerf long shot rifle, Christmas Eve so here model airplanes, MP3 are a few of the things I Merry Christmas player, Halo and Star am asking for ChristmasSanta! How is War action figures and 1. Some Playstation 2 everything at the North ships and a dirt bike.

GamesUp/Bolt Pole? My name is Shiann Don’t forget my little /PacMan/Star Wars and I am 9 years old brother. I’ll leave you Clone Wars/Kung Fu from Tamaroa, Illinois. chocolate milk and Panda/Family My parents said I have cookies.

Guy/Spongebob the been exceptionally Thanks, Josh W. Movie Game, 2. Nerf 100 good this past year. I try Dart Action Gun, 3. to share and get along I have been a good Movies-Up/Indiana with my little brother boy all year, well most Jones Last 2 movies, 4.

Trenton. I also try to do of the time! I would like New Bike/Electric my best in school. I to have a Wonder Pets Scooter like my Dad’s, want to thank you for Fly Boat and Diego’s 5. Some New Star Wars gifts I received last Rescue Back Pack for Galactic Heros, 6. year and ask that you Christmas. If it’s not too Clone Trooper remember me this year. much trouble I would Helmet/Duel Lightsaber, I would really like a also like the DVD movie 7. Some Cars Movie Nintendo Wii and some UP, and a green guitar. I things, 8. New Pair of Nintendo DS games for will leave you milk and Shoes, 9. Melinum Christmas. I would also cookies out on Falcon Legos, 10. Guitar love some craft kits, Christmas Eve also.

Hero Game for some scrapbooking Love, Benjamin R. Playstation 2. I will make paper, scissors, ribbons, Age 3½ sure my sister and I stampers, and stickers. leave cookies and Milk A stocking full of candy My name is Zachary out for you and carrots would be great too. I’ll and I like Christmas for Rudolph. I love you leave you some holiday forever. Can I please Santa and thank you for brownies with have: 1. Mario and Luigi being you. chocolate milk by the Love, Kevin F. game, 2. Mario and Christmas Tree to Sonic game, 3. Ninja enjoy. Santa, please First I would like to tell Turtle Attack, 4. Remote remember to bring my controlled helicopter, 5. you that I love you very little brother Trenton, much. I want to ask you Bakugan Card game, 6. my mom and dad, mam- Silly 6 pins, 7. Operation, if me and my brother maw and bubba, and 8. Santa Buddies Movies. could go for a ride on little puppy Lucy Love, Zachary H. your sleigh. I have been something special too. being pretty Good this Thank you Santa. Hope I hope that you’r year and I’m learning a you have a safe flight feeling good about lot in school. I know that and a Blessed Holiday delivering presents. Do you have to buy all the Season! you’r reindeer do good little boys and girls gifts, Patiently Waiting, at there flying? Does so I’m going to just ask Shiann Rudolph, Prancer, for a few things for Blitzen, Donder, Vixen, Christmas. 1. Walking Hay boy u git my Comet, Cupid, Dasher Dog Toy, 2. Dora sisters on the good list. and Dancer have bells Computer Toy, 3. Alvin & Madison C. on there collars? Does The Chipmunks Movie 2, 4. Dora Playstation 2 Save the Princess game, 5. Pair of Boots, 6.

Sponge Bob Game and Movies, 7. More little Pets Bobbles, 8.

Madagascar Xmas movie, 9. Toy Piano, 10.

Hannah Montana Stuff, 11. Barbie doll. I’m going to leave carrots outside from the Residents for Rudolph and then and Staff of cookies and mile for you. I love you Santa 4ever.

210 E. College Love, Kelsey F.

618-529-5355

Energy, IL

Healthcare of Energy

Have a Blessed and Joyous Holiday Season!

Need Room for Your STUFF?R

the imaginarium Medieval Castle. I would also like the Playmobil Pyramid. I would really like the city Police Headquarters. I would want the Cars mater the grater super stunt show. And last I would want the Spin Master switchblade.

And finly I would want the HeMiniXpla 1 Netbook.

Your frinde, Luke L. I have been very good this year. I would like a Polly Pocket Coaster set, a Touch n brush toothpaste dispenser, and IPOD, zhu zhu pets, an iCarly DS game, a laptop computer, a DSi, an electric scooter to ride around, a play doh burger maker set, a magic 8 ball, a password journal, the game guess who, a plain skateboard, a babydoll carseat, a mindflex game, a play doh ice cream maker set, an Icarly Sam’s remote, a smackdown 2010 playset, Boogie Superstar Wii game, Crayola glowstatin, the game What’s in Ned’s Head and Moon Sand.

My Dad would like a remote control helicopter, he has been good too! Thank you. I will leave you a surprise snack by the fireplace.

Love, Reagan, Age 7 I am not a Kid. We are grandparend of a young man. We raise him most of his live. We know he alright and working. We haven’t seen him in a while. We would just like from him to call us.

Love from your Grandparend, A & B Martin My Gram is writing this for me because I’m only 3 yrs. old. I would like a Pink stroller, and a baby doll for Christmas.

I love you Santa!

Thank you, Marrissa H. My Gram is writing this for me. I’m only 4 yrs old, and I want a “Big” Green Tractor for Christmas!

Thank you, Colton H. My name is Kasandrea L. My mommy is helping me write this letter because I will be 5 years old on January 17th, 2010. Here is what I want for Christmas. 1.

Clothes in pants and shirts 5T to 6T, 2. Shoes size 13 in Kids, 3. Baby Alive, 4. Earrings, 5.

Radio and CD Player (Country Music), 6.

Spongebob Stuff. I will leave you some milk and cookies out. I have been a good girl all year long. By the way I go to Pre-K over at Denning School of the morning and Head Start in the afternoon.

Love Always, Kasandrea L. My name is Justin L. and I am in the First Grade, and just turned 7 years old on October 29th, 2009. I have been a good boy all year long. Here is a list of what I want for Christmas. 1. Xbox 360, 2, Skateboard, 3. Bike, 4.

Clock Radio & CD Player (Country Music), 5.

Clothes 8-9 in pants and a medium shirt, 6. Shoes size 2½ in kids. I will leave you some milk and Cookies out.

Love Always, Justin L. I would like a box that makes a noise and lights up with toys in it.

Drake

618-942-7014

Jesus Christ, the Reason for the Season, is the Greatest Gift ever given!

May God Bless you & your Family!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from

Jack’s Roofing, Siding & Windows Royalton • 618-984-3351

www.cookstuff.com

Old Rt. 51 South, Cobden, IL 800-772-STUF

THE SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2009

I want NCAA basketball 010 and I want Jack and Daxter the frontier and NCAA football 10 and Santa I was going to ask for Madden 10 but my Mimi already got it. I want a red, white, and blue basketball net, also. P.S. You will have good cookies.

Love, Bronson N. You are a awesome man if you can go all around the world in one night to give children there presents and I know when your done your ready to relax but can you do me a favor.

At the bottom of the list it says coded door a coded door is a door that has a code to it if the code I sent right you cant get in but if the code is right you can get in that’s what a coded door is. Now here’s my faver while your dropping presents off if you can which you don’t half to, lay it on the wall by my bedroom. When you walk through the door there is a hall stop at the end of the hall and turn right that’s my bedroom.

P.S. Don’t lay the door in my bedroom there is words on the wall that say’s always kiss me good night. Lay it there.

From Matyi What I want for Christmas is a tetherball set. And I want Spongebob DVD’s and WII 2010 Wrestling game.

Love, Aidan K. I want Sweet 16 imagine Nintendo DS game please. I would also like New Super Mario Bros. DS game, Creativity for Kids Jewelry Boutique and a new Ipod Touch. Thank you very much!

Love, Ryley Elayne Marie G. I want Nursery Pets, Super Mario Bros, and Club Penguin all in Nintendo DS From Raegen G. I want VooVoo pets please!

XOXOXOXOXOX I want an electric guitar. I would also like a BB gun. I am 6 years old and go to OLMC. Thank you, Gunter G. All I want for Christmas is a Zhu Zhu Pet, Rocky the Robot Truck and a real baby crib for all my dollies to take a nap in. Please bring my cousin Maranda C. a lot of fancy dresses cause she’s a Homecoming Queen.

Love, Zoie M. Age 5

book with stickers. I would also like a miny radio I would like a dry erase board and a desk.

My dog Koko wants bones and treats. Thank you for the presents you gave me last Christmas.

Alexis B., Age 6 I love you Santa, and you are the best ever. I have been good will you please get me a bike to ride from Carterville, Illinois.

Love, Joslyn S. 1. basketball 19.99, 2. air hockey 24.99, 3. Up (movie), 4. Wii sport resort, 5. Rock Band or Guitar Hero The Beatles, 6. Apple 8gb itouch cellphone 199.99, 7. nerf N-strike Raider Rapid fire blaster, 8.

Nerf dart tage crossfire blaster & target shield set-orange, 9. gotcha shot single blaster, 10. camo bow and mollow, 11. Air zone punisher gatling blaster, 12. NBA basketball, 13. Spalding 8352 S back atcha ball return.

Thank you, Jagger P. Hello. Thank you for my stuff. I want a real spotted dog. I’m so happy you’re coming. I would like some Star Wars and Halo Lego kits sets. I would also really like Mario and Sonic Olympic Winter games for my D.S. Please bring me a water color change shop for my Matchbox cars if I don’t get it for my birthday. I will be 5 years old soon, Santa! My brother and I would really like the Nerf Capture the Flag dart gun set. We promise to share it. I really, really, really want a Pogo stick bad! I have wanted it for a long time. I think I need some protective gear like a helmet and elbow pads and knee pads too. I promise to wear it when I use my pogo stick and when I ride my red bike. If I fall off, I won’t get hurt. I think I need more train sets Santa, and another train table. My mom really said no, but I say yes. You have been good to me Santa. I have been a good boy this week. That’s all Santa, nothing else.

Sincerely and bye, Rex P. I want a big castle, A Dorothy doll and A Princess and the Frog game.

Love, Audreyana, Age 5

Thank you for the Brillent stuff you got me last year. I just wanted to wish you and the reaindeer good Luck exspeailly Roadof your Red nosed reaindeer.

There is not much stuff I My name is Jarret. I’m want for Christmas all I 4 yrs old and 11 months, would like is…2 new car that’s why my Granny is bears Share bear and writing this for me. I Tenderheart, mabey a been a litte bad, but new Lamp and desk mostly good this year. I too, Last I would like a only want one thing for clipboard and big dry me this Christmas a big erase board. That’s all!! drum set, something for I will leave you some my best friend Max and white milk and choclat my Granny. Oh! My Aunt chip cookie, and some Beanie wants a new carrots for the truck I heard her tell my reaindeer. Hope you Granny, maybe you can rember my new drive one to her house. I addres!!!! Hope I see hope you don’t get the you soon!! Merry flu, I’ll leave you a Christams Love, Marissa B., sandwich and choc.

Age 9 now Milk with some medicine when you come to my I would like to have a house.

Reote control, WALLE, a P.S. Would you try to Schrecher Dinosaur find my Tigger that and a Renote Control somebody took from Jet Fivter. Does Rudolph my yard Halloween. If like cookies? you do just put it on my From Noah carport and my Daddy will put it away. Thank My Brother Luke would You Santa!

Love. Jarret like to have a Fire Truck with doors that opens My Christmas List: up and a Lader with 1. DS Game. 2. A Peppermints.

Noah stuffed Pupy. 3. A doll. 4.

A strawberry short My name is Gabe. I cake doll. 5. A baby doll. am 7 years old. I have a 6. A cooking Set. 7. A great teacher and I fack Vacuum. 8. A have a great family.

DISHES KITCHEN SINK. 9. A Stuffed Kangaroo & How are the reindeer and the elves? How baby. 10. Horse does the reindeer fly? I Slumberbag. 11. have been really nice. I CASHCOW. 12. Drop’N have helped my Go Emma. 13. HIDE”N parents. I would like a SQUEAK EGGS. 14. My First Purse. 15. Bath TIME Xbox 360, a Ipod, flat screen TV, dirt bike, a BREE. 16. JUMP-O-LENE. bendy skate board and Merry Christmas Santa a helicopter controller.

Clause Name: Sydney Renee Gabe S. C., Age 6 My nam is Amiyah and I would like a camera I go to Tri-C Elementary. also a beanbag, a new I’m 8 years old. I’m in soccer ball too, some second grade. I have 3 clothes for my webkinz brothers. How are you? and a new coloring Is Mrs. Claus alright? I

www.thesouthern.com have tried to be good this year. I have been nice to my brothers. I would like a cd player, new winter clothes, games, Hanna Montannah CD’s, earrings, a necklace, movies, boots, gloves and makeup.

Amiyah M. Hi my name is Jake. I like sports. I go to Tri-C Elementary and I have a great teacher. How are the reindeer? I have tried to be a good boy this year. I help cook and I took out the trash. I would like a PSP, Ipod, BB gun, and a phone.

Jacob G. My name is Zoe and I am 7 years old. And I am in 2nd grade. And I have a great school.

How is Mrs. Claus and the elves? I have been good this year. I have been babysitting my cousin. I would like a English Bull dog, An American Doll with blonde hair and a bed for it, a bracelet made out of rope, cheerleading shoes, and winter boots.

Love, Zoe Z. My name is Cameren and I’m 7 years old. I’m in 2nd grade. I have a good class. How have you and Mrs. Claus? I have been nice to my friends this year. I help my mom clean. I would like a Zhu Zhu pets, Moxie Girls, and a little Pet shop of the hamsters.

Cameren G. My name is Nick. I go to Tri-C Elementary. I’m 8 years old. How is Ruldoph and the others reindeer? I’m a good boy. I like family! I take out the garbage. I would like a X-box 360.

Nick S.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

cleaned my room and PS. My litte sister loves clean the whole home.

Elmo.

Your friend, Cayleigh R. I would like this X-Box 360, DS games, and I am Lani. I’m 7 years heelies. Happy Hollidays old and I have a Santa.

Joslyn S. brother and sister. How are the elves and the My name is Jaxen. I’ve reindeer? I have been ben good. I do my good this year. I have tried to clean my room. chores. I tried to be I would like a lizard, dog, good to my sisters. How hamster, pig, globe, doll do your reindeer fly?

Please could I have a and a cell phone.

Lani D. Ben Ten watch? My sister wants a Barbie. I My name is Grace. I hope you have fun!

Your Friend, Jaxen am seven years old. I am in 2nd grade. How is My name is Madison. I Ruldoph? How do you fly tried my best being your raindeers? I have good. I tried being good been very good and nice this year. I’ve been at school. Do you come with Mrs. Claus? Please very nice to my friends and I wash the dishes. I could you bring me a laptop and a guineawould like a sewing kit, pig? I hope you get mindflex, and a ipod, a around safely! computer, and a text Your friend, Madison C. phone. Merry Christmas.

Grace S. My name is Carson. I My name is Aaron. I don’t think Iv been bad. am 7. I have a great I do the best I can to family. I go to Tri-C be good. What do you Elementary and I have 3 do when it’s not dogs. How do the Christmas? Please can I reindeer fly? I have have a Xbox 360 and a been good this year. I four wheeler. I hope have helped my mom you have a great and dad wash the Christmas!

Your Friend, Carson dishes. I would like a Game Q, and My name Maddie. I Playstation, games, Xhelp my mom clean the Box, a DS, and games house. I did my for it, and an Ipod, a monkey, some clothes, homework. Has Mrs. a recever, and a dog, a Claus ever had a baby?

Please could I have a cat some school DS and LPs. Do not supplies, a pet lizard, a forget my sister and book, a toy train, and a brothers. My sister 100 puzzle.

Aaron T. wants a book and my brothers would like cars.

Hi, I’m Ryan. I’m 7 Good Job! Your friend, Maddie years old and I go to school at Tri-C My name is Gabi. I Elementary School. I have a great family and have helped my mom with my baby sister. I try I’m in 2nd grade. How not to talk back to my are the reindeer and mom. Do the reindeer Mrs. Claus and how are really have a red nose? the elves? I tried being Please could I have a good this year. I Baby Alive and a cleaned my room this American Girl and ZuZu year. I would like a pets. Write me back. lightsaber and some Your friend, Gabi more legos and 2 ipods 1 for my brother and 1 for My name is Jasmine. I me please.

Ryan S. was good this year. How many year’s of Christmis I’m 7 and I’m in 2 did you do? I help my grade. I have a great mom. Can you get my dog and his name is little sister Jessica a big Max. How does Bliztson supplys of diapers? I fly? I have been good. I hope you have a Merry have fed Max and I’ve Christmis. I would like a been getting the mail. notebook. I hope you Nut cracker, ipod, BB like cookies. Write me gun, cell phone! back.

Payton G. Your frend, Jasmine

My name is Layne. I go to school at Tri-C Elemtary. I’m 8 years old. I play baseball and football. I have a great family. I have a question, how bo you get to every home in one night? I have been tring to be good. I been getting the mail. I would like a x box 360 and a small flat screen TV. A small computer with a hunting game that has My name is Chandler training. That’s what I I’m seven years old. I want for Christmas.

Layne G. have a great family and a great dog. Have you My name is Emma. I’m been having a good 7 years old. I go to Tri-C year? I have helped my Elementary school. How dad with billing. I have do the reindeer fly? I helped babysitting. I have been very nice would like a this year. I have playstation2, candy cleaned out the cane basketball, dishwasher. I would like toothbrush, a teeshirt, a Barbie Musketeers siu shorts, siu jersey, Doll, Bendaroos, and 1000 piece puzzle, Paperoni.

Magnetix, Dump truck Emma J. and a jersey.

Chandler R. My name is Jayden. I Hi. My name is Toby love sports. I am 7 years and I’m 8 years old and old. My school is Tri-C I go to Tri-C Elementary.

Elentary. I am in 2nd I have 3 brothers and 4 grade. I have a sister. sisters and I do tae How does the reindeer kwon do. How are you? fly? How old are the reindeer? I cleaned the I have been nice this year. There have been house one day and I less fights this year with have been good and nice. I have been good my brothers and I’ve to my sister. I would like been good to them. I would like Sims2 a dream Town Castaway for the PS2, dollhouse, a monkey, a bed for my puppy, a toy Playmobile, Time Splitters 3 for the PS2, for my puppy, Ipod, 2 Ipod, and a X-Box 360.

Barbie cars, a Toby B. computer, Skateboard, and Text Phone.

Jayden S. My name is Anna and I am 7 years old. I have 1 My name is Ali and I’m brother and 3 cats and 1 7 years old. I’m in mom and dad. How do second grade and I go the reindeer fly? How to Tri-C Elementary. I are you? I have been don’t have a brother or good because I am sister. I’m the only kid. very nice to my friends How have you been? I and I help my mom and have been good this dad. I would like a big year. I play with little penguin, a little bunny, kids. I’ve been nice to and a pillow pet everyone. I would like a penguin.

Anna C. long jump rope, the zhu zhu pet set, a cat My name is Tanner. keychain phone, two I’m in 2nd grade and square ball, a chair, I’m 8 years old. How do legos, stuffed animal, the reindeer fly? I have Taylor Swift cd, been very good and I bracelets, and a helped my dad work necklace.

Ali L. and clean. I would like DS games and a Wii My name is Cayleigh. game and a X-box and I’m 7 years old. I have a a X-Box 360 and a toy Litte sister. How is car and GI Joe people Ruldoph? How do the and a skate barod and reindeer fly? I have heelies and a phone.

Tanner S. been very good. I try to make new friends. I My name is Joslyn and wash the dishes. I would I go to Tri-C Elementary. like a crazy cooken, a I’m 7 years old and I’m sewing case, a Susi in 2nd grade and I like Pets, and more American girl dresis and sports. How have you been? I have been more DS Games and Roller blads and a Ipod. good and nice. I have

My name is Sierra. I’ve tried to do good in School. I’ve tried to feed my dog. I want to know how you are so quiet? Please could you get me a bike. And some roller skates and a sled? Could you get a bone for my dog? Have a good Christmas!

Your friend, Sierra

3

My name is Luke. I stayed on green all year. I let my sister Chloe come in my room.

How do your elves make such good toys?

Please could you bring me a guinea pig? My sister Averi says that she wants a DS. I hope you don’t crash!

Your friend, Luke Hi. My name is Madilynn. I’ve been really good. Please could you get me that dog I’ve wanted for 2 years. Emma and I are both wanting a D.S. Cotton Ball wants a pack of mice. Pepa wants a pack of jingale balles. Can I have a gunie pig? P.S. Cookies are all yours. They will be in a metal can. P.S. I also want a game boy.

Your Freind, Madilynn My name is Rose. I was very nice this year.

I like to help kids when they are sad. I hope to get a new bike that says Power Puff. I would like a Hannah Montana Helmet.

Your Friend, Rose My name is Mary. At home my friend’s brother has a pneumonia and in the hosptal. He will be coming home today. If he dosin’t come home today I have been nice to his brother because his mom is in the hospital with her son. I have been good. Where do Mrs. Claus and you live?

For Christmas, I want a laptop and a phone. For my dog please bring a bed. I hope you have a good Chrismas.

Your friend, Mary My name is John. I’ve been very good. I go to bed when I’m asked.

Are you very fat?

Please may I have a Nintendo DS and some diapers for Paul. I hope you have a great Christmas!

Your friend, John My name is Dalton.

I’ve been good. I am a cub scout. How many elves do you have?

Please could I have a Nintendo DSi and a clone turbo tank with 20 clone figures and 20 speeders and 20 clones with real heads. Good bye.

Your friend, Dalton Hiyo are you and Miss Claus doing? I hope you are doing ok. Santa, I want a wii and my whole family wants a wii.

Makaley I been a good girl and I know you and your elf have been doing good job and I know how hard it is. You are the best Santa Claus and I want is a pony and a thing that’s wonderful, American girl and a bady monky you you’re the best I know.

Candice

My name is Kyle. I’ve been very good. I have helped my family. What is your favorite kind of cookies? Please could I have Lego Rock Band, Spongebob truth or Square, and Mario Strikers Charged. A ball for my guinea pig and I want a grand deth treats for my cat. I hope you like chocolate otto set. I have been a good boy I like your milk.

Your friend, Kyle wife. I want an MP3 player and PS2 and a It wasn’t me it was my skateboard and a Xbox sister. I’ve been good 360 and a Jeff Duns not to brag. How big are Chistmas speshel. PS your elves? Please Drum set Beatles Rock could I have a dirtbike Band. PS you rock.

Your boy, Nate guy and a Nike shirt. I hope you like M and M What I want for cookies.

Your friend, Luke Christmas is a megatron and I tried to be a good My name is Colby. I boy and I want some am nice to everybody. I wii games and I ben help my parents around good boy.

Cameron the house. How many elves do you have?

I’v been a good boy Please can you get my so for Chistmas I want a little brother GI Joe beatles cd and beatles movie. My big brother an I pod. Please get me drum. Well how’s an I tunes card. Have a Rudolph, and the others? Are you working Jolly Christmas!

Your friend, Colby on a diet and you know that Jacob guy, my My name is Sarah. I advice is put him on the am being good at my naughty list.

Patrick house. Why can we see you? Please could you I am trying to be a get a bone for my dog good girl. Are you and and can you get a miss claus? I really what mouse toy for my pet a guitar a laptop a wii a cat? I would like a DS Nintendo D.S. and game and a board mindflex. I hop you have game. I hope you have a very happy Christmas. a good Christmas.

Your friend, Sarah Lilianna My name is Tristan.

I’ve tried to be good.

How do reindeer fly?

Can you please bring me a DSI? I hope you don’t fall out of the sky.

Your friend, Tristan

My name is Brandt.

How are you doing?

How are the elves?

Pleas can you get me a bow and arrow. Can you get my baby brother a new book.

Your friend, Brandt

4

MERRY CHRISTMAS

How are you and Mrs. Claus doing. Because I’m doing fine. I am realy trying to be good.

I’m having a great day.

Are you? Lots of people in my neighborehood have Wiis, DSes, and Xboxes but I don’t have any I would really like a Wii but it’s fine if you can’t get one because I have more fun things to do any way. I still can’t find the right thing to give my mom and dad can you help me?

Alex

www.thesouthern.com

the Elfs working on the presents and are you and Miss Claus coming with your reindeer on Christmas.

Abeni

make toys? How are you doing? I’m hoping for a pet. How are the reindeer and the elves doing? Merry Christmas.

Bailey

Wow you are a good boy and you have a bunch of elves. They have a bunch of work to do and how are you and Mss Claus and the rein deer? You have a nice house and I will set out cookies for you. I love you. I wold like a MP3 player and a real phone for Christmas please and my brothers would like a spongbob movie and a DS. I and my mom some high heels and my dad a tie and a shirt and some pants for my dad thank you for your help.

Conner

For Christmas I whant a fake horse and a robot dog. I what a puppy. How are you and your reindeer? What would you like for Christmas? I whant my family to have the best Christmas ever.

Warm wishes, Marysol

I’ve been good santa claus. I want mindflex.

It looks fun. I like Christmas because my family gets to put up the tree and stockings. I hope I get a fur real friend Kitten. I want a laptop and a laptop case. I want the laptop How are you and miss case to be yellow. I Claus? I have tried to want the laptop to be be my best. Did you orange.

Julia know that I think that you and Mis Claus and Ho ho ho. I bet you the elves are very nice are busy. Can I have a to make kids dreams Wii game. I should get a come true for all these Wii game because I’ve years. Now what I want. been nice to my family. I want a Nintendo DS. I Thank you for giving me want a level 4 my cat cloy. How are megatron, optimis your reindeer and prime. I want 2 remote Rudolph? My brother control cars to race wants a remote control against my brother. I Speed racer. Can I want games for my have the Hannah Nintendo DS. I want a Montana CD. Mrs. new basketball goal. I Sparks should be on the want a better life but I good list because she is know you can’t do that.

Caleb a nice teacher.

Hailey D. I have been a good Merry Christmas. I ben boy, I guess. Before I a good girl. I whant a say anything, I want for American Girl. I want a Christmas I would like to MP3 player. I want a ask you how old you are.

Laptop. I want a guitar.

Oh, I changed my mind, I want a Barbie house. I I don’t want anything want a Charm Bracelet. for Christmas because Riley it just makes more work for you. Oh, and thank I’ve been a good girl. you for everything you I would like a American got me the past few Girl. I would like a years.

Austin jewelry set and two light saver and some Hi Santa I have been clothes for my good I hope your doing American Girl. I think good I want a laptop you are the best Santa in the world. I would like and a Rudolph toy figure and a glode and a toy Santa and Mrs. Claus toy a toy elf and a American Girl a ball and a wii and stufanmals new Dimond.

Love, Kerington and a jakeinthedox and Nintendo DS. Xbox How are you Mr. and mindflex and MP3 player Mrs. Claus. I want a and a baby monkey Nintendo DSI. I would and iec skates and a love that. You can give blanket and a robet me Zue Zoo pets. They and a drum and a apple run fast. They are fun for my teacher. I want and I want a baby a box of kittins, and monkey and I have Books on anmals. And been a good girl I have paper and a puppy and had a fun year a nutcracker and a Rebecca nice coat and a ring.

Isabella How are you doing.

I tried to be a good How are you’r reindeer. boy but it is hard to not Can I have a lego rock band wii game. Remote listen to mean kids. I control car. And I want want a dsi a Halo 3 game and a movie a doobybrothers CD. I called Christmas want a remote control revenge of the fallen helicopter.

Nick and I want bumblebee and a guitar and How are you doing.

SpongeBob truth or I’ve been a good girl. sauar and a scooter Can I have these things. and nurf guns.

Christian I want a mind flex, cup cake maker, liv dolls, How are you? For snow board, Baby Christmas I really want monkey, Bumble Bee, a globe with all of your Wii, drumset. Have fun.

Haleigh reindeer and expecially you. Or a cup with How is the weather in Rudolf. You are such a the noth pole? I have wonderful guy. How do tried to be a good girl you make sure you get and I wood like a to everybodys house in American Girl doll For one night? Merry Christmas and if I don’t Christmas.

Alice I’ll be fine with out it. I want to know if you and How is Mrs. Claus Miss is Claus are doing in doing? How do you the noth pole and are

Seasons Greetings from

Feirich Mager Green Ryan 2001 W. Main St. Carbondale, I L 62901

618-529-3000

May this Holiday Season be a Sweet One!

Holiday Holidays!

Super 8 Motel 1180 E. Main, Carbondale

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How are you? How is Mas. Clous doing? How are the reindeer doing?

I want the best Christmas ever with lots of presents and toys. I want a black and white dog that is cute. I hope you have a very Merry Christmas.

Warm Wishes, Jordan W. I have been trying to be a good boy. I would like a guitar and I would like a skatbard and I wish I could have a remote control car.

Nathan How are you doing? I want these things for Christmas because they’re just so important to me. I want a Wii, a fur real white cat, and a nintindo DSI. How are Mrs. Cluas and the Reindeer? I have always wonderd, do your Elf’s go to school?

I hope I can hear from you soon! Merry Christmas.

Madelyn How are you? I am hoping to get a Natendo DS and a Pink gocart and flipflop earings. How are your reindeer. I love reindeer. They are so cute. How is Miss Claus?

What kind of cookies do you like? I was very nice this year. My sister wants a red gocart and a Dora couch. My sister is a little nice. I hope you have a very Merry Christmas.

Love, Madison F. I have been a good girl this year. How are you and Ms. Clase doing.

How are Rudolf and the other Reindeer doing?

How is you’re slay doing? I want a Barbie and a DS for Christmas.

I hope you have a Merry Christmas.

Merry Christmas, Sydney P. I like Christmas because of the toys. Do you like toys? This year I’d like a toy robot for Christmas. I like how robots move! I like my snowboard from last Christmas. I hope it snows so I can use it!

Merry Christmas, Xavier I’m hoping for some Cam Jansen books. I’m hoping for some baseball cards. Mr. Claus, how is Mrs Claus doing? Merry Christmas.

Tanner How is Mrs. Claus?

How do your reindeer fly? I am wishing for a Moxie doll, a new born pug, and Zambi. Merry Christmas.

Sydney B. Hi. How are you doing? I want a Monkeye.

Alex

THE SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2009

We asked readers to share their favorite Christmas songs and the memories or feelings associated with them. Here are their responses: “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” brings back memories of taking grandchildren to see Christmas lights. We would go to all the well-known light displays in surrounding towns, open the sunroof and let the grandkids stand up and look out at all the wonderful lights, driving very slowly, of course.

What they did not want to hear at their age were the classic Christmas songs. So we played an alternative selection of songs, their favorite being “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” from the CD “Christmas Classics — Redneck Style.”

The grandchildren are now in college, but I still play this at Christmas.

Cheryl Bryant, Carbondale My favorite Christmas song is “The Christmas Song” (“Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire”).

Each year I enjoy hearing this song, for it takes me back to remembering my three Christmases celebrated in Berlin, Germany, when I would carouse the major shopping street, named Kufurstendamstrasse, for holiday presents to send stateside: nutcrackers, incense burners, stollen, down comforters, etc.

A multitude of shops, in addition to all sorts of street fixtures, were ablaze in lights, with practically every street corner decked out with food vendors hawking all sorts of tasty morsels to tease the tastebuds.

My favorite foods during this time of year, both then and now, are the hot-roasted chestnuts and gluhwein, for they both bestow a certain glow upon a person when chilled with freezing temperatures and biting winter’s breeze.

During the holiday seasons of 1976 to 1978, I fell in love with Berlin’s Kufurstendamstrasse, followed by the Christmas of 1979 when I lived in Wiesbaden and celebrated my very first Christmas with a man who would become my future husband, Phil Clayton.

Since then he has lit up my life with his own special array of lights for the last 17 holiday seasons and helps to keep the home fires burning brightly with joy and excitement.

Happy holidays to you and yours, Joanne Clayton, Herrin “White Christmas” is my favorite Christmas song.

It’s not Christmas until I see “Holiday Inn” and “It’s a Wonderful Life.”

It’s good to be reminded that each one of us plays an important part in “the big picture.” What we say and how we live affects the lives of others. I try to live by this simple fact.

Sheila McCune, The Southern Illinoisan

Christmas memories are special but none more so to me than those of 1978.

My wife was eight months pregnant and counting the days to the expected delivery date in mid-January. Persistent infection found her hospitalized in Franklin Hospital in Benton. It was definitely not the best way to spend your holiday, but hopes and prayers were for her to get well and home before Christmas.

Early on the morning of Dec. 21, I received a call from the hospital saying my wife was going into labor. Our daughter was born that morning as God presented us with a special Christmas blessing. While in the delivery room with Dr. Lewis, my wife and I were serenaded by an angel of a nurse who sang Christmas carols during the delivery.

Amidst the excitement, “Silent Night” will always be one of my favorites, not just because of its significance but for the special memories and special Christmas it reflects upon.

Mark Stirneman, Benton My favorite Christmas song is Dolly Parton’s, “Hard Candy Christmas.” I love the way it sounds, and it makes me think of all the Christmas memories that I have had over my lifetime.

Stephanie Peterein, Murphysboro

I grew up with listening to the old-time Christmas singers like Bing Crosby, Perry Como, Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole.

My favorite Christmas song is “Hard Candy “The Christmas Song” by Christmas” by Dolly Parton.

Bing Crosby is my Being from a very large family, we were pleased favorite. When I listen to with very little; even hard candy was a treat to a to it, it reminds me every “country kid.” year at Christmas when These memories remind us to appreciate the my mom would sit us all simple and heartfelt gift, in a time where material together and make hot things seem to hold unnecessary value, and bring us cocoa and of watching all back to the real meaning of the season. the old-time Christmas Carrie Fann,Carterville shows and cartoons. Since mom has passed away, I sit with my kids, watching My favorite song is “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” the Christmas shows we because it reminds me of how very grateful we all watched growing up, and should be to have homes and loved ones at this holy time of year. No gift is as great as that of a spot to be make hot cocoa for them.

It’s something they look where you are loved and wanted. forward to. I’m sure when Such is the concept of “Home” and should be our destination, if only in thought and remembrance, of I’m gone, they will carry this time on with their those we cherish in our lives. kids.

(In memory of my son, Kevin Shayne Orr, Chandra Reed, 11/6/1967-11/22/07.)

Rosiclare Dixie Richardson, Carterville

May the Joy of Christmas Fill Your Home and Heart

Have a Blessed Holiday!

A-1 Buildings & Overhead Door Marion • 618-983-5909

HappyHolidays

Joy to the World for You & Yours! from

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Happy Holidays to One & All

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110 1/2 S. 4th St., Elkville

618-315-7955

ELKVILLE State Bank 568-1541

MEMBER FDIC

www.thesouthern.com

THE SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2009

The sounds of the season: It’s family When I think of Christmas, I don’t really remember specific things.

I’ve been racking my brain for a couple of weeks now, and I have very few individual memories in the mold of “Uncle Bob did this” or “one time, Grandma burned the roast.” Music plays an important part in my life, but all the songs that play over and over in the month of December run together as an underlying soundtrack that is indistinct.

My grandma loved Bing Crosby. “White Christmas” is the most popular Christmas song of all time, and the singer is synonymous with the season. I remember his Christmas records at my grandparents.

When Crosby died in 1977 — a few months after I was born — my grandma called one of my aunts. My aunt was a little confused why grandma was so upset, to which she replied, “Well, he was my Elvis.”

I’d never seen the movie “White Christmas” until last year. My girlfriend loves the movie and was appalled that I hadn’t seen it, so I surprised her by taking her to the Liberty Theater in Murphysboro to see it.

My mom and dad both come from large families. With all the spouses and children, the holidays are crowded and chaotic.

When I was very, very young, my grandpa and grandma on my dad’s side had a farmhouse in rural Elkville. All the kids, grandkids and greatgrandkids would gather there for all the major holidays. Later on, my grandparents moved into Murphysboro because of my grandpa’s Alzheimer’s. We continued the tradition of getting together at the new house, which was smaller and even more cramped, especially since the family continued to grow.

Eventually my grandpa had to be moved to the nursing home, and we would visit him a couple times a week, and especially at holidays. I remember how his whiskers felt when I sat on his lap and hugged him.

We all continued to get together at my grandma’s house every year.

When she finally moved to a small apartment, the family alternated hosting the holidays, which is what we do now, even after her death.

In such a large family, you’d think it’d be harder to be noticed, but that’s not the case at all. You just have more people ready to torment you.

One year, one of my uncles held me down under his chair and tickled me relentlessly until I cried. I’m pretty sure I did something to incite the incident, although knowing how much he loved to aggravate, I may actually have been innocent.

Another uncle of mine had a wooden leg with a small hole in the front. My cousins and I used to put pennies in it. At this point, he would lock on the dreaded “iron claw” that made us scream and giggle until we could get free and run away, only to reorganize for another offensive later, which also failed miserably.

I remember the way my cousins and I fought over my Aunt Shirley’s chocolate pie, which is still my favorite dessert of all time. (Yes, Aunt Shirley, this is a hint.)

My sister and I always woke mom and dad up at the crack of dawn to open presents. For some reason, my dad would always have to fix his hair before we could start. I’m not really sure why he felt the need to do this. I assume it was because my mom would be taking pictures, but it didn’t really work. If you go back to the photo albums, especially the ones from the early 80s, my dad should have shaved off the Burt Reynolds mustache if he didn’t want to look silly.

My younger cousins and I grew up listening to great storytellers, in awe of the effortless way my uncles and older cousins could talk about the simplest things and make them absolutely hilarious and interesting.

Of course, the abundance of four-letter words that peppered the details also helped to make them a little exciting.

All of these snippets of memory give me a really warm feeling, especially during holiday time. I guess one of the reasons I don’t have an attachment to specific memories is because it was never about the event but the people. We’re never lost in old memories, because we’re always making new ones.

When my family gets together this Christmas, there’s going to be a lot of laughing, loud talking and babies crying. Underneath it all, one of my grandma’s scratchy records of “White Christmas” will play, and all our family members, including who are still here as well as the ones we’ve lost will be heard together in the combined sounds of the season.

Brent Stewart, The Southern Illinoisan My favorite Christmas song is from an early 1970s Christmas hits album and is “O Holy Night” performed by the Kingston Trio. It reminds me of good times growing up in Bowie, Md. To me, it is one of the most beautiful Christmas songs ever recorded. It brings back very fond Christmas memories whenever I hear the song, regardless of the performer.

Carol Snuffer, The Southern Illinoisan

The worst Christmas and the best Christmas It’s amazing how one year can make such a difference. My husband, Rod, and I went from the worst Christmas ever in 1981 to the best Christmas ever in 1982 because of a baby boy.

We had a great desire to be parents. I became pregnant in 1979 but suffered a miscarriage in July. After 10 long months we were pregnant again, scared but very excited. We were blessed with a daughter, Angela, who was born Feb. 25, 1982. Our excitement quickly changed to sorrow. Angela was born early and her lungs were not developed. She only lived 21 hours. We were devastated!

In September we were blessed again — yep, another pregnancy.

Again, we were excited but still very nervous. We were dreading Christmas because our little girl would have been 10 months old.

Sometimes God in his great wisdom steps in and helps you survive those rocky moments.

We went through the motions of Christmas. We attended a family dinner Christmas Eve. I started feeling nauseated shortly after supper. We spent the night at my sister and brother-in-law’s home; my husband, Rod, was sick by morning. The flu bug had invaded our Christmas, but what a blessing! We went home and went to bed with fevers, chills and upset stomachs. Our Christmas meal was a can of chicken noodle soup. It was wonderful; we were too sick to grieve for what might have been.

The Lord blessed us with a beautiful healthy son, David, in June 1982. He was an active curious 6-month-old by the time Christmas 1982 rolled around. It was so much fun to see his eyes light up when he gazed at the lighted Christmas tree. It was a joy to shop for his first Christmas presents. He was so cute on Christmas Eve in his peppermint-striped sleeper.

Even though David (now Dave) is 27 years old, he still holds that special place in our hearts just like he did Christmas 1982. We are looking forward to Christmas 2009 when Dave and his wife, Joanna, again join us to celebrate the Savior’s birthday.

Doris Harrison, Hurst

I always sang in choir at church throughout my life. I always loved “Silent Night” and “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” because it is relating to the true meaning of Christmas.

As a young girl, I went to South Carolina at Christmas to be with my mom and stepdad to meet his family and to see the city he was from. I relate that time with “Silver Bells;” it was my favorite. Also Alabama’s “Christmas in Dixie,” because I love the southern states.

Rita Neighbors, De Soto

We lived next door to my grandparents, growing up in New Jersey. Our home was a converted carriage house to the mansion on the hill. My grandparents lived in one side of the carriage house and we on the other.

My favorite musical memory is lying on our living room floor by the Christmas tree, which would touch our 12-foot ceilings, and listening while my Grandmother would play the piano “next door.” At Christmas, my favorite would be listening to her play “Silver Bells.” It was just beautiful!

We were a musical family, and on Christmas Day, my Dad would put his Santa hat on and play the accordion. Our favorite at the time was his playing of “Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” while we sang along!

Arlene Wright, The Southern Illinoisan

It was December 1944. My husband, Cecil, had been seriously wounded on Nov. 4, 1944, in the Battle of the Huertgen Forest in Germany.

He was in a hospital in England, and we were in hopes he would be home for Christmas. He did not get home until Feb. 1945.

Every time I hear “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” I get tears in my eyes.

Mary Powell,Marion

In the summer of 1968, I was missioned to San Juan, Puerto Rico, an island of Spanish-speaking people. Part of my ministry was being organist at Santa Bernardita Church.

As Christmas neared, I yearned for carols in English. The Saturday before Christmas I took a record from the convent with English Christmas songs and went to church to listen to it with the volume turned way up. In walked the priest, wondering what was happening. Tears came to my eyes. I mentioned that “Noche de Paz” just wasn’t “Silent Night,” and it was difficult for me to adjust to the Spanish hymns.

Midnight Mass, the church was packed. When I started to play “Noche de Paz” as planned, the entire congregation sang “Silent Night” in their broken English with the pastor leading the congregation! Eleven years later, when I returned to the states, “Silent Night” and “Noche de Paz” had become my favorite carols.

Sister Catherine Wellinghoff, St. Paul’s, Johnston City

HAPPY HOLIDAYS to You and Yours!

I hope I get a Air Hog switch blad what would you like for Christmas.

How are your reindeer?

Love, Jonathan I hope that the reindeer are ok. Santa, all I what is a DS. I have been wanting it since my birthday in October a long time ago you can give me anything I don’t mind I wish you a very Merry Christmas!

Love, Zakaria Hello Santa. My name is Brennen. I am hoping for some Webkinz cothes and a DSi. I hope you can get it for me. How is Mrs. Claus?

Hope you have a good Christmas.

Love, Brennen How are you and Mrs. Claus? How are your reindeer? I am hoping for some webkinz for Christmas. I also want some books and a D.S. too. I hope you have a Merry Cristmas.

Love, Alyssa I was wondering how you and Mrs. Claus are doing and I was hoping you could bring me a guitar and a computer for Christmas Love, Alyiah S.

I have been good this year. I help clean the house everyday. Do reindeer like bells? For Cristmas I would like a Nintendo DS with pokemon. I’ll be good for goodness sake.

Merry Cristmas.

Your friend, Kyle F. I have been good this year. I set the table every day. Do reindeers really fly? For Christmas I would like a book and a notbook and I would like a math book and a handwriting book.

Your friend, Amentah H. I have been good this year. I make my bed.

How does Rudolph have a red nose? I would like a four wheeler for Christmas.

Your friend, Logan J. I have been good this year. I clean my room.

Have you been good Santa? For Chrismas I would like a dog because I had to give my dog away and bendaross.

Your friend, Courtney C. I have been funny and good this year. I wash the dishes. How do your reindeer fly?

For Christmas I would like a jetpack and the super Mario game for my Wii. Your friend, Seth H.

I have been good.

This year, I wash the dishes and dry them.

What cookies do you lick? For Chrismas I wood lick stufanimals How is Rudolf and his and a pixos.

Your friend, Paige H. red nose? Santa, I hope you get me a Nintendo I have been good this DS. I really like the legos year. I sweep every you gave me one year.

Love, Bryan day. How do reindeer fly. I wod like a pet I have been good this shop, and a rile fone, year. I vacuum pixos and sum animals.

Your friend, Tamera R. everyday. Do you really like cookies? For I have been good this Christmas I would like a year. I take care of my diamond for Christmas.

Your friend, Gabe S. pets and make my bed.

How do reindeer fly. For I have been good this Christmas I want a pink year. I take care of my guitar with flowers and pet. How does Rudolph some clothes. And a have a red nose? For new stuffed anmale.

Christmas I would like a Merry Chrimstmas four wheeler and a Santa. Have a good xbox 360 game called Christmas. Be very very call of Duty Modurn War good ok.

Love, Faith H. fair 2 please.

Your friend, Rafe T. I have been good this I have been good this year. I cleen up the year. I clen up my room. whole house I do the dishes. I help sometimes. How old is my mom vacuum. How your reindeer? For are your rander? Are Chrismas I want you having fun up there. Baukugauns.

Your friend, Chris Have you been good Santa? For Christmas I I have been good. I would like a new Wii. help keep my room May I please have clean. Why do they call some benders and them reindeer? I hope some sprayza.

Your friend, Gracie L. you have a good Christmas.

I have been good this Your friend, Micah V. year. I tack care of I have been good this pets and tack out the year. I make my be trash. How do reindeer fly. For Christmas I wold everyday and take out like an Mashas Char and the trash. How do you sta in the sled? For a DS game.

Your friend, Gabriel A. Christmas I would like a Nintendo DS and an I SPY game for it.

Your friend, McKala N.

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May Your Holidays Be Bright!

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How is Mrs. Claus? For Chrismas I want a sign that says stop. I’d also like a Private Property sign. How are your reindeer. See you on Christmas Eve. Merry Christmas.

Will

I have deen good this year. I make my bed in I help my mom do Logeu.

And cleing my rum. And I vacuum. For Christmas I would like a x.box.

Your friend, Seth W.

from the Joe Ollis Auction Family!

1806 N Court St. Marion, IL

from the Staff and Residents of

I hope for a DSi and a DS game. How are you doing? How is Mrs. Clause doing? What is your favorite toy? How are your reindeer doing? I hope you have a Merry Christmas.

Sincerely, Zachary K.

5

Seasons Greetings

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

MERRY CHRISTMAS

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I have been good this year. I clean my room an wash the dishis. Are you real? For Christmas I would like a PSP and a Nintendo DSi. Your friend, Corbin C.

I want a new pink really fly? I would like Baugan wii game and a dress and a spiderman plus a new Gator like Baugan.

Your friend, Joseph C. David. I would also like a heart for Mom, I want an IPod, a D.S., McKenzie and Dad. I some new shoes (tie). I want a purple shirt, red have been a very good pants, blue gloves, pink I have been good this girl. My brother would hat and red boots.

Love, Makayla year. I make my bed like a girlfriend and everyday and vacuum. hunting gear. My mom I want a Spiderman Do reindeers really fly? would like clothes and For Christmas I would jewelry. Dad would also game. I have been like pixos and a piano. like some hunting stuff. I good. My brother is so Your friend, Alex Z. hope you come to see happy when my dad comes home for me on Christmas.

I have been good this Love, Adison Christmas and is not at year. I clen the dog work on the boat. I poop. Do reindeers would like clothes for

my sister’s doll. My dad would like a real BB gun.

Mom would like a beautiful pink doll. I will leave you cookies.

Love, Nicholas Thanks for everything you gave us. I would like a Nintendo D.S., a black Spiderman jumpsuit, an idog, a red and blue Spiderman jumpsuit. The games for the D.S are Spiderman 3, Transformers 2 and Hot Wheels Battle force.

The game for my Wii is Spiderman III. My dad

THE SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2009

would like a rifle. I would like an air soft gun pistol and a bb gun pistol. My sister would like Baby Alive. My mom would like new hair gel, new shoes, earrings, and more make-up. I have been a very good boy. I would also like a black kitten.

Love, Hunter

tent. My sisters would like Barbie dolls, hearts, and books. My parents would like rings. Dad would like a boat. I would also like a teddy bear. I will leave you cookies on Christmas.

Love, Karrie

I am going to make you some cookies. How are your reindeer? Can I hope you are doing you bring me a Nintendo well. I have been a DS, a Barbie, some playgood girl. For Christmas, doh, a baby doll, a toy I would like new shoes, snake and a picture of a real frog, a snowflake, me with you!

Love, Shelby a t-shirt, and a jacket, a

2009 Christmas Angels Shane, Lilly & Karson

Haley & Samantha

Ashley, Adam & Phillip Fluharty

Ages: 14, 4 & 9 Parents: John & Kelly

Ages: 13 To our beautiful daughters, Merry Christmas from Mom & Dad

Ages: 8, 3 & 7 Niece & Nephews of: Marilyn Halstead

Ashlee Nichole

Davis Lutes

Collin Ross

Graham

Hannah

Nakela S. Broadnax

Age: 5 Parents: Michelle & Darren

Age: 2 Parent: Staci Merry Christmas to My Family

Age: 1 Parents: Chelsey & Curtis

Age: 7 Parents: Bethany & Mark

Age: 4 Great Grandmother: Sandy

Age: 10 Parents: Rubin & Belinda

Dustin & Mercedes Ginn

Zoie Mott-Horn

Madeline Oxendine

Ages: 9 & 10 Grandmother: Kathy Kelton

Age: 5 Parents: Kelly Mott & Joe Horn

Age: 7 Parents: Ted & Shannon

Amelia Spain Age: 6 mos.

Parents: Angie & Robert

Vincent Perkins

Age: 19 mos.

You’re our Angel every day of the year!

Love: Nana, Papa, Zio & Aunt C.

Kenshon & Keantré Ages: 6 & 2 Parent: Ciara

Wesley Ward & Jack Young

Maria Tippy & Jenna Tippy

Age: 10 & 14 Age: 10 & 2 1/2 Our Pride & Joy! Grandparents: Gigi & Papa Haury

Kamryn Thorpe

Khloe Addison

Noelle Warren

Lucas Rogers

Age: 7 mos.

Parents: Chelsey & David

Age: 8 mos.

Parents: Nate & Amber

Age: 9 Parents: Bruce & Dana

Age: 9 mos.

Parents: Brad & Dana

Tyler

Age: 14 mos.

We love you Sweet Tater!

Uncle Rod & Aunt Doris

Age: 6 mos.

Parents: Derek & Jenn

Harrison

Becca & Evan Flath Age: 6 & 2 Parents: Brian & Jennifer

I would like two new Barbies for the bathtub.

I would also like a teddy bear for my mommy. My brother would like new video games, and my dad would like anew shovel to bury my dead fish with. I promise I’ll be good.

Love, Isabella How are your reindeer? Does Rudolph’s nose still work? I want a PSP and a dirt bike game. I want a little 50 dirt bike that is green that runs on gas.

Love, Logan Thanks for my presents. I have been a good boy. I want a Spiderman umbrella, a ghost costume and Kidz Bop. I love you!

Love, Eli I would like a Nitendo DS, IPod, Xbox 360, Dirt bike and a 4-wheeler. I need new games, new clothes and shoes. I promise I will be good.

Love, Sammy I have been a good girl. I want a fake puppy, a soft bed, and new D.S. Nicholas has not told me what he would like. Mom would like something, but I don’t know what. The same for Dad. I will leave you some cookies and milk.

Love, Adreanna I love you. Is Rudolph going to guide your sleigh tonight? I would like to have an Ipod, a toy magic want, a mask parade mask, some dolls, a snail, kites, pretend money and something for my brother and sister.

Love, Jalynn I am going to give you cookies! I want get a lot of DS games, a pet baby shark, some movies, an X-box 360, a remote control truck, and some clothes. I love my mommy and daddy.

Love, Grady You are awesome! Is Rudolph going to guide your sleigh? I’m going to give you a snack and a drink. I want a DS and some games. I would also like an Ipod, and a sled. Kendall would like a little baby doll. Mommy wants new lipstick. Are you getting nice cookies?

Love, Sydney I have been good! So I would a Nintendo DS, Kite and two Barbies for me and my sister.

Love, Jaden I would like Thomas the Train Waterfall and Thomas and Percy plus Jinx and #5.

Love, Draven How are you doing? I have been good. I want a PSP and some games, and a fake snake.

Love, Kaden

MERRY CHRISTMAS

www.thesouthern.com

THE SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2009

I want a robot, X-box 360, watch, bed and new toys for brother and sister. My Mom and Dad already have stuff.

Love, Ethan

I can’t wait for Christmas. I want a toolbox to keep tools in it. I would like a DS game. How is Santa?

You already know how I am.

Love, Cole

I’ve been good. I want a Barbie I want a DS. I will give dollhouse. I didn’t be you a hug. I love you! bad. I want a real girl Love, Skylar G. puppy. Can she be blond and brown? I I been good. I want a think you’re awesome.

Love, Mercedes toy pet cat, and a scooter. I always I want a castle and a wanted that. I like the dinosaur. See you at reindeer bells.

Love, Ellie Christmas!

Love, Austin J. I want a Spiderman I’ve had a good year. toy. I like to watch I’ve been good. I want cartoons and go to an X-Box and a McDonald’s Do playstation. I like reindeer fly?

Love, Jesse S. Rudolph because of his nose.

Love, Gabe I want a DS and a Playstation for How are you? I am Christmas. I like good. I want presents. I will leave camoflague boots, and some cookies. I like a camoflague shirt. I your reindeer.

Love, Dustin E. want a remote control airplane. I can’t wait I’ve been good. I until Christmas.

Love, Logan V. want dinosaurs for Christmas. My sister Do you know what I wants a princess Mom want for Christmas? I and dad wants dimes.

Love, Collin want Rocky the Robot dump truck and a new I have been good. I bike that says nerf. I want Bendaroos and think you’re cool.

Love, Cori some new clothes for Christmas. Bring my I want a remote sister a Barbie doll. My control submarine and brother needs more a laptop. I want a batteries for his swing. remote control boat My mommy likes glass too. My mom needs a angels.

Love, Madison new laptop. I think my dad would like a fish I want a remote tank with electric eels. I control car for hope it’s nice at the Christmas. I want a toy North Pole. How do you motorcycle too. Bring make toys?

Love, Parker my sister dolls. Bring a pan for mom and a new I want a Barbie doll phone for dad. I like set, a bicycle and a doll you, Santa.

Love, Owen set. Me and my family has been good. I love My brother, Austin, you very much.

Love, Haylee needs a train track. My dad wants a fake fish in I can’t wait until a fish tank (a BIG fish Christmas. I have been tank)! My mom wants a sometimes good. I’ll fix new laptop. Kendra how I’ve been. I want a wants a laptop too. I Transformer. I also want a remote control want a video game.

Submarine and a How are you and Mrs. Transformer that Santa doing? I wish you changes into anything! a Merry Christmas.

Ryan wants a TY stand Love, Issac that opens and closes.

Love, Kyle How are your My mom wants a Wii reindeers? How is for Christmas. My dad Rudolph? He is my wants tools. I really favorite. What does want a real cell phone.

Rudolph like to eat on I want it to be pink. I’ll Christmas night? Could you bring me a dinosaur leave you milk and that squirts water out of cookies.

Love, Taylor its mouth and a big fire truck that makes all the Is it cold up there? Will sounds. Happy Merry you bring me Christmas.

Love, Tim B. camoflauge for Christmas? Bring Kory a How are you? I have camoflauge helmet and been good. I want a a camoflauge cowboy pink Barbie airplane. I hat for Kyle. Get my also want a pink doll mom a new necklace that turns into a and give my dad a new mermaid. I wish you a shirt. I hope you eat the Merry Christmas. cookies and drink the Love, Shealee milk I leave for you.

Love, Kody Hello. I have been I want a Ben Ten good. I want a baby game for Christmas. My doll with a bottle, and medicine. I also want a sister wants a video game. My mom wants a pink CareBear. I hope DS. My dad wants a new you have a good movie. I like you, Santa.

Christmas.

Love, Madison Love, Levi

Please bring me a big dump truck, new guns, and toys. Would you also bring me new animals. I Hope you have a want a new clock for my house. And new toys good Christmas. I’ve been good when I’m for Bailey too.

Love, Nathan out of school. Please bring me a robot with I think I’m good, and I CDs, and Pigs Start to haven’t been naughty. I fly. Hope you like your want a dinosaur that cookies and milk.

Love, Logan spits on you. I want a real hippo. I would put I like you. I have been him on my bed and feed naughty because my him chicken. I think you brother has been are good.

Love, Brysten beating me up, but I will be good. I want a baby Have you had a good doll that crys and has a day? I have had a good binky. I want a stuffed day. I want a flexible doggy with a doggy Barbie doll. I want a bone. How is Vixen? He stuffed puppy animal, is my favorite reindeer.

Love, Lani and a unicorn. I think you are real.

Love, Jamie

I want a Barbie doll and a DS. I want Bendaroos too. Landon likes PSPs and he doesn’t have one.

Brittany wants a Pink DS. Mikayla likes red, so she would like a red DS. Me and mommy will make you chocolate chip cookie and milk.

Love, Brooke I would like a toy puppy and a rocking horse, and a toy horse.

My sister would like a toy computer and dress-up clothes. Bring some soap for mama and some bubble bath.

Dad wants a mattress and a picture frame.

Love, Claire

Barrett, Twomey, Broom, Hughes & Hoke, LLP 100 N. Illinois, Carbondale

457-0437

I want a Furreal Kitty for Christmas. I want you to bring mom a candle and dad a deer hunting game. I want you to bring some toys for my pet Kitty, sissy.

Bring my dogs some bones. I will leave you some milk and cookies.

Love, Alanah How are you doing? I wonder what are you going to get me for Christmas? I want Barbie and the Three Muskateers. Sissy loves baby dolls. My mom wants some new earrings to wear so the phone won’t hurt her ear. Daddy wants nothing cause he’s on the naughty list.

Love, Julia How are you feeling?

I want a paddleball for Christmas. I also want a Wii and the MarioCart game for it. Jade wants the Wii too and Mario Vs Sonic. I want some Indiana Jones stuff too.

I’m being good!

Love, Jackson K. I want Christmas lights. I want some bees too. I would like a rock for Christmas. I need a little tree.

Love, Jade M. I want a skateboard and a dirt bike for Christmas. My brother wants a squishy couch and I want one of those too. My mom and dad don’t want anything. Is Mrs. Clause being good?

Love, Kolten I’d like something for Christmas. How are your reindeer doing? How are you doing up at the North Pole. I bet it’s cold up there. I want some camoflauge for Christmas, like a camoflauge shirt, and boots, and some toys.

Love, Christopher I want a race track for Christmas. My big brother wants a sniper rifle. My little brother wants a little race track and a little car. My dad wants a new gun. Bring my mom a pink sweater.

I’ve been good for ninety-two days.

Love, Jackson D. I want a guitar for Christmas. My brother likes farm animals. My mom would like anew baking pan. My dad would like some new tools. My sister would probably like a candy machine. I love you, Santa, and all of your reindeer too.

Love, Harris Please bring me a rocket spaceship.

Love, Dalton C.

I love you. I want some mini traffic signs to ride my bike around.

My mom likes purses. My sister wants a little pool.

My dad likes tools. I want some toy frogs too. I’ll leave you some cookies on Christmas.

Love, Damien

7

Please bring me an Air Hogs Radio-Control, Switchblade, a Mario Kart Radio-Control Terrain Titans Micro, and a Hot Wheels Color Shifter Garage.

Love, Cameron

Please bring me a dog, a fire truck, a I really like this holiday. bicycle, crayons, I really want a toy jet scissors, books, pencils, for Christmas. I want and blocks.

Love, Joshua W. you to bring my mom some new furniture. She Please bring me a really wants some. My shotgun, a D-Rex, a Air dad might want a new knife case to hook onto Hogs Radio-Control his pocket. I’ll leave you Laser Micro Zero Gravity, and a Air Hogs some milk and cookies.

Love, Keegan Radio-Control Switchblade.

I like you. How is Mrs. Love, Mason Clause doing? How are Please bring me a doll the reindeer doing? I house, barbies, Moxy am doing good. How Girls, shirts, books, a are the elves doing? I dog, a radio, and want some Littlest crayons.

Petshop Babies. Mason Love, Paytin D. would probably like Spiderman things. Austin Please bring me a likes deer hunting stuff. princess toy, barbies, a My dad likes deer hunting stuff too. Please stuffed toy, Hot Wheels Color Shifters Garage, a bring mom something Disney Musical too.

Love, Alyssa Keyboard Vanity, an Easy Bake Oven, and a Bring mama a big, big My Little Pony Styling toy monkey. I want to Pony.

Love, Ryleigh T. get my dad a little bear toy. I want a toy ant for Please bring me a Heidi. I want Power Puff Girls for Christmas! Bye- skateboard, a power wheel scooter, and bye Santa.

Love, Katie water balloons.

Love, Rhett J. Please bring me a Please bring me a purple DS, some DS Bubba Fet toy, a D-Rex, games, The Wizard of a Transformers Oz movie, and Hannah Supreme Combiner, a Montana The Movie.

Love, Brooke GI Joe Pit Mobile Headquarters, and a GI Please bring me a Joe guy.

Love, Logan Monty Rex, a Transformers Please bring me Performance Track Optimus Prime toys, tools.

Love, Nathan Deer Hunting video games, and a Dinosaur Please bring me a four-wheeler that I can Barbie house, Barbie ride on.

Love, Jeremy N. clothes, Barbie shoes, more dolls, a rainbow, a Please bring me radio, and a picnic cowboy boots, a table.

Love, Haley H. remote control airplane, and a Please bring me a Lightening McQueen bicycle, a scooter, a car.

Love, Lane R. doll, more kitty cats, snow for 5 days, Please bring me a scissors, a pencil, Legos, a rainbow pillow, shotgun so I can go hunting with my dad, an a sweater, an electric scooter, a inflatable, playhouse, Bagakan game for my and a huge box of DS, a BB gun, and a crayons.

Love, Sarah N. bouncey house.

Love, Zane O. Please bring me a Please bring me a Baby Alive doll.

Love, Kassidy B. Monty Rex, GX Racers Motorized MultiPlease bring me a Launcher, Air Hogs Batman castle, a Radio-Controlled Laser remote control car that Micro Zero Gravity, and goes in the water, a GI Air Hogs RadioJoe guy and a GI Joe Pit Controlled Switchblade.

Love, Keatton E. Mobile Headquarters.

Love, Harley C.

Wishing You a Merry Christmas and a Great and Safe New Year!

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THE SOUTHERN ILLINOISAN THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2009

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