by Fraser, age 8 from Aberdeen, Scotland, asks Santa about train rides, the North Sea, and the city’s fishing heritage.
Dear Santa, my name is Fraser, and I am eight years old. I live in Aberdeen, Scotland, where my granda says our whole city is nicknamed the Granite City because of the grey stone used to build it.
Dear Fraser, a city built from sturdy grey granite deserves a very solid, dependable flyover, your granda picked a truly rock-solid hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Is there a Santa train ride? My mam wants to take me on one before Christmas Eve this year.
There certainly are festive train rides out there, Fraser, some decorated top to bottom with lights and holiday cheer. Your mam’s plan sounds like a wonderfully cozy way to spend an afternoon together.
My granda says Aberdeen sits right on the North Sea. Is that true?
It is true, Fraser, the North Sea stretches along your city’s edge, an important and busy body of water. I always enjoy that cool, glimmering coastline on my way to your rooftop.
My granda says Aberdeen has always been an important fishing city. Is that true?
It is true, Fraser, fishing has shaped Aberdeen’s history and economy for generations, boats heading out into the North Sea and returning with their catch. That kind of steady, hardworking tradition is really something worth admiring.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Fraser MacLeod
Aberdeen, Scotland
P.S. Will you wave at the train if you see it running this year?
Every single year, Fraser, a good train deserves a proper hello.
