by Hunter, age 9 from Charleston, West Virginia, asks Santa about Santa emojis, the Appalachian Mountains, and West Virginia’s Civil War statehood.
Dear Santa, my name is Hunter, and I am nine years old. I live in Charleston, West Virginia, where my dad says our whole state sits entirely within one big mountain range.
Dear Hunter, a state tucked entirely into the mountains makes for one of the bumpiest, most beautiful landings on my whole route, your dad picked a truly rugged hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Is there a Santa emoji? My sister wants to text one to our whole family group chat this year.
There are several cheerful Santa emojis out there, Hunter, perfect for spreading a little digital holiday cheer. Tell your sister a well-placed emoji can carry just as much warmth as a whole sentence.
My dad says West Virginia is entirely within the Appalachian Mountains. Is that true?
It is true, Hunter, West Virginia sits completely within the Appalachian range, making it one of the most mountainous states east of the Mississippi. I always enjoy that rolling, rugged landscape flying over on my way to your rooftop.
My dad says West Virginia actually became its own state by splitting off from Virginia during a war. Is that true?
It is true, Hunter, West Virginia separated from Virginia during the Civil War, becoming its own state in 1863. That kind of standing firm on a difficult decision is a meaningful piece of history worth remembering.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Hunter Caldwell
Charleston, West Virginia
P.S. Will you send an emoji back if we text you one?
I will do my very best, Hunter, my typing skills lag behind my sleigh skills.
