Thanks to Tom Cooney and his friend Camie Gallo for submitting this!

The students at the Paul B. Stevens School for Exceptional Children in Clearwater eagerly anticipated the thrill of the season as they watched their chimney for the arrival of Santa on Dec. 17 and 18.

When they spotted the man with the white beard and red suit, they broke out in smiles as they waved to him and crowded around him in the lobby, "Santa! Santa!" they yelled and were met by a hearty "Ho, Ho, Ho".

When it comes to the sight of Santa, no matter our age or ability we are little kids at heart. 

With the help of Elf Caren, Santa gave presents to the principal and vice principal and said they could open their presents early.     

The different classes at the school then lined up for a chance to sit on Santa's lap. Anticipation filled the air heavier than sugar plum fairies. The excitement showed in the twinkling of their tender young eyes, as each student spent  time with Santa telling him what they wanted for Christmas.

Santa would look to each face and briefly reflect on the happenings of this past year; the 20 children in Connecticut along with the little girl from our own back yard in Hillsborough county.

Each moment was bitter sweet for Santa. But for the children, they were oblivious to the antics of our modern world. They looked with wonder and innocence at the man wearing the red-velvet suit, touching the soft fabric delighted their senses as they chattered on; smiling faces delighted the visual senses of Santa whom is deaf. 

As in the past years, being a Santa at Clearwater's Paul B. Stevens School for Exceptional Children is an experience that embodies the epitome of Christmas. Tom Cooney Sr. continues to show us that being a positive role model to all children causes a ripple effect.  Elf Caren sums it up saying, "Santa Cooney really knows how to bring the REAL meaning of Christmas spirit into the students lives through the heartfelt contact shared each year."