MKMMA 2018-19 – Week 18 – Santa’s Everywhere

I just came back from the 25th Annual Fraternal Order of Real Bearded Santa’s Silver Jubilee. https://www.silverjubileereunion.com

Ever since I saw that Santa conventions existed I knew I wanted to go to one. As part of my DMP I can now cross that off my list. I got to meet many other Brothers in Red. We had a lot of fun including several workshops such as Ukulele playing (beginning and advanced), Magic of Santa, booking commercial events, better home visits, and even a Mrs. Claus workshop. I made so many new friends and really had a great time with fun, laughter and even tears.

I got to meet two Santas I really admire and who are famous and really felt a connection with everyone in the room. It was like a family a real brotherhood and fraternity.

You might recognize this guy: Santa Timothy Connaghan

And I was really excited to meet this Santa who has mentored me: Santa Ed Taylor

There was an improv murder mystery which I participated in as one of the characters as well as a tribute called the “Last Sleigh Ride” which is basically what it sounds like. Santas saying their final good byes to fellow Santas who passed this last year. It was a real tear jerker even though I didn’t know any of them and I know that will get to me in future years. The PowerPoint slide included the Ukulele version of Somewhere over the Rainbow… which really reminded me of the MKE obituaries and yep I could not hold back the tears as a room full of Santa’s said their final farewells to their Brothers in Red.

I happened to be the youngest Santa in the room so it’s very humbling how much more this will hit home for me in years to come, as I made many new friends and I am already looking forward to seeing them again!