“Ho, ho, ho! 🎄 Hello there Emily Rose! It’s me, Santa Claus, speaking to you all the way from the snowy North Pole. I’ve been checking my big book, the one with the names of every boy and girl around the world, and do you know what? I see your name right there — Emily Rose O’Connor, age 7, from Dublin. And guess what? You are most definitely on my Good List this year! Well done, my dear.

Mrs. Claus tells me you’ve been working so very hard in school, especially with your reading and writing. I hear your teacher is very impressed with how much progress you’ve made since September. And I know that your mum and dad — Sarah and Paul — are very proud of you too. They tell me you love reading bedtime stories, and that you’re always the first to ask for just one more chapter before lights out. That makes me very happy indeed. Reading opens up whole new worlds, and I encourage you to keep it up.

Now, the elves have also reported something very special about you. They say you have been such a kind big sister to your little brother, Oliver. You’ve been helping him tidy up his toys, sharing your colouring pencils with him, and even teaching him new songs. That’s the true Christmas spirit right there, Emily. Being kind, helpful, and patient with those around you is far more important than any present under the tree.

Oh, and speaking of kindness, I also heard about the time you helped your Granny in the garden during the summer. She was so grateful for your help carrying things and watering the flowers. Good deeds like that do not go unnoticed here in the North Pole. In fact, one of my elves, Eric, wrote your name down in gold ink on the Nice List after hearing that story.

Now, Emily, I hear you have a Christmas wish this year. You’ve asked for a LEGO Friends set and some new art supplies. The elves in the workshop have been very busy building all sorts of wonderful things. Just the other day, I walked past the LEGO corner, and I could hear the elves humming happily while putting together colourful little pieces. I can’t make any promises, but I will do my very best to make sure you get a special surprise that will bring you joy on Christmas morning.

But remember, Christmas isn’t only about the gifts. It’s also about family, love, and creating happy memories. I know that on Christmas Eve, your family always bakes mince pies together. I do hope you’ll save one for me — I get terribly hungry flying around the world delivering presents. And don’t forget a carrot for Rudolph. He loves carrots, especially the crunchy ones from your local shop.

Emily, I also heard that you’ve been learning to ride your bicycle. That takes a lot of courage and balance, and I’m very proud of you for not giving up, even when it was difficult at first. That determination will help you with everything you do in life.

You know, Santa has been watching children for a very long time, and I can tell when someone has a big heart. And you, Emily Rose, have one of the kindest hearts I’ve ever seen. I know your parents, Sarah and Paul, are thankful for the joy you bring into their lives. They tell me that you love to sing Christmas carols, that you can’t wait to decorate the Christmas tree with tinsel and shiny baubles, and that you get so excited when the fairy lights are switched on. That excitement makes Christmas truly magical for the whole family.

And let’s not forget your friends. I heard that you’ve been a very good friend to Sophie at school, always including her in games and sharing your crayons. Friendship is one of the greatest gifts of all, and I am very proud of you for being such a thoughtful friend.

I also heard about Daisy, your little pet rabbit. I hear you take great care of her — feeding her, cleaning her hutch, and giving her lots of love. Animals are special creatures, and the way you look after Daisy shows me that you are responsible and caring.

Now Emily, I want you to keep being kind, to keep trying your best at school, and to always remember that Christmas is about giving as much as receiving. Keep helping Oliver, keep being a great friend to Sophie, and keep showing love to your family and pets.

On Christmas Eve, when you’re all tucked up in bed in your cosy house in Dublin, remember to listen out for the sound of reindeer hooves on the roof. It will be me and my sleigh, flying in from the frosty skies. I’ll be carrying presents for you and children all around the world.

But I can’t stay too long — I’ll need to finish my mince pie quickly and share Rudolph’s carrot with the other reindeer. They’ll be tired from the long journey.

So Emily, before I go, let me tell you this: you are loved, you are special, and you bring joy to everyone around you. Santa is so proud of you, and I look forward to visiting your home this Christmas Eve.

Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas, Emily Rose! Give my love to Mum, Dad, Oliver, Granny, Sophie, and Daisy the rabbit. I can’t wait to see you soon. Until then, keep smiling, keep being kind, and keep believing in the magic of Christmas. Goodbye for now!”