by Louis from Toulouse asks Santa who he really is, learns about the Garonne River and Toulouse’s nickname the Pink City, and hears about the city’s aerospace industry heritage
Dear Santa, my name is Louis and I am nine years old. I live in Toulouse, France, where my grand-père says our whole city glows a soft pink color because of the special bricks used to build it centuries ago.
Dear Louis, I have admired that exact pink glow myself while flying over, and your grand-père’s description is entirely accurate.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, who is Santa, really? My little sister wants a proper, thoughtful answer, not just a quick one.
I am the modern continuation of Saint Nicholas, Louis, a real and generous bishop from many centuries ago, whose spirit of quiet kindness grew slowly over time into the Santa Claus known today. I try to carry that same spirit forward every single year.
My second question is about our river. My teacher says the Garonne River flows right through Toulouse. Is that true?
It is, Louis. The Garonne River winds through Toulouse, its banks lined with those distinctive pink-brick buildings. Flying along its path each Christmas Eve is a genuinely lovely part of my French route.
My third question is about aerospace. My teacher says important aircraft and spacecraft are built right here in Toulouse. Is that true?
It is true, Louis. Toulouse has become one of the most important centers for the aerospace industry in all of Europe, with significant aircraft manufacturing based there. I always notice that careful, precise engineering in gifts made near your city.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Louis Dubois
Toulouse, France
P.S. Does the sleigh ever get inspected by aerospace engineers?
Only informally, Louis. They seem quietly impressed by the design.
