Boba Fet

How To Save Christmas When the Favorite Toy is Sold Out
by Dianne Roth

It is a parent’s nightmare. My six-year old wanted Boba Fet, the “StarWars” bounty hunter, for Christmas. He wanted nothing else. He told Santa. He wrote to Santa. He called 1-800-Santa. That was fine with me. Shopping would be easy. But, there was not a Boba Fet for miles around. They were sold out!

Do I disappoint my child or do I put my life and all other preparations on hold for the toy that happens to be in fashion? For a fleeting moment I planned my harried trip to the city: leave the kids, drive 80 miles, hit all the stores. But, in another moment, I recognized my lack of energy, lack of time, and my lack of $15.00 to put gas into the old pickup to get a $4.00 toy. I did not go. But, what of a little boy who was sure that Santa would not let him down?

The answer was surprisingly simple. You see, I still believe in Santa Claus. I sat down and wrote a letter to my son. It went something like this:

Dear Ryan,

It has been a busy year. I have traveled around the world watching all the children growing and playing. I enjoyed watching you turn into a six year old. I was particularly happy to see how nice you were to your brother when he cut his finger and how you share your legos with friends.

The elves have been busy making toys. I understand you want Boba Fet and it makes me sad to tell you that we do not have enough. I will not forget you. Soon, I will make another visit. Some morning, you will find Boba Fet sitting on your pillow.

Thank you so much for the cookies and milk. Gingersnaps are my favorite. I love dunking them in milk. Merry Christmas!.

Love, Santa

I wrote that letter and put it into Ryan’s stocking. On Christmas morning he was disappointed, but not much. Then, without stress, I looked for Boba Fet. He appeared in April. I wrapped him up and, with another quick note, Santa reassured Ryan that he had not been forgotten.

Dianne Roth is a teacher, mother, grandmother, and freelance writer. She lives in Oregon.