by Juniper, age 8 from Portland, Oregon, asks Santa about ornaments, the city’s rivers, and its City of Roses nickname.
Dear Santa, my name is Juniper, and I am eight years old. I live in Portland, Oregon, where my mom says our city has so many bridges that people call it Bridgetown.
Dear Juniper, a city nicknamed for its bridges makes for one of the most interesting flight paths on my entire route, your mom picked a truly well-connected hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Are there Santa ornaments? My grandma has a whole collection she adds to every single year.
There certainly are, Juniper, Santa ornaments come in every shape, size, and style imaginable. Your grandma’s growing collection sounds like a wonderful, ongoing tradition worth celebrating each year.
My mom says Portland sits where the Willamette River meets the Columbia River. Is that true?
It is true, Juniper, the Willamette River flows into the mighty Columbia right near your city, two important rivers meeting in one place. I always follow that watery junction to help find my way to your rooftop.
My mom says Portland is nicknamed the City of Roses because so many beautiful rose gardens grow here. Is that true?
It is true, Juniper, Portland has earned that lovely nickname thanks to its many rose gardens, blooming brightly for much of the year. That kind of citywide care for beauty and green spaces is really something worth admiring.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Juniper Hale
Portland, Oregon
P.S. Will you bring my grandma a new ornament for her collection?
Already wrapped, Juniper, a growing collection deserves a proper new addition.
