Campbells Soup Gets Some Terrible News,
The Christmas My Daughter Taught Me What Magic Really Is
1. A Hallmark Life
For twelve years, my husband, Hayden, and I built a life full of love notes,
laughter, and our daughter Mya’s endless curiosity—
questions about stars, reindeer, and sandwiches.
Every December, I tried to make Christmas magical for her:
snowdrifts made of cotton, twinkling lights, and neighborhood caroling. I thought I was creating the wonder.
2. The Night She Disappeared
That year, I hid Nutcracker tickets under the tree.
But at 2 a.m. on Christmas Eve, Mya was gone. My heart froze—until Hayden found her note to Santa.
She’d taken blankets, scarves, and sandwiches “so the reindeer can rest” in the abandoned house across the street.
3. A Midnight Rescue
I found her safe, rosy-cheeked, proudly waiting for Santa.
I tucked her in without scolding—some magic is too fragile for correction.
4. Real Christmas Magic
Morning brought a “thank you” letter from Santa. Mya’s joy, her kindness, and her belief turned fear into grace.
I realized then that true Christmas magic isn’t made by parents—it’s born from a child’s love.
