Secret Santas

The big guy's best-kept secret? He's got elves everywhere.

I'd Like to Propose a Roast

Our entire household caught COVID-19 just a few days before Christmas. Amid the stress, I forgot that I’d already ordered a rib roast for our holiday dinner. When the butcher called to tell us it was ready, I told him that, unfortunately, we’d caught COVID and couldn't pick it up. He replied, I’ll drop it off when I get off work. You shouldn’t be without Christmas dinner.” The doorbell rang at 5:15 p.m. The roast was hanging on the doorknob. The butcher waved from the end of the driveway, and I asked how to pay. He said, Merry Christmas. Just get better.’ VICTORIA SEFRANEK Bethlehem, PA

Guardian Angels

It was my first Christmas as a newlywed and mother in Cadillac, Michigan. I had our Christmas shopping fund in cash in my pocket. But when I got to the register, it was gone. I retraced my steps and found two strangers standing guard over my bank envelope on the aisle floor. I guess the relief on my face was enough evidence it belonged to me. They walked away before I could thank them, but it’s been 51 years and I still remember their faces. JOANNE NICHOLS Niceville,  FL

Earning His Wings