VALDOSTA — Santa Claus will visit the homes of good little boys and girls all over the world tonight, Christmas Eve. It’s a moment children look forward to with much excitement and anticipation, eager to discover the many wonderful gifts the jolly old elf will bring them.

The following is how a few local children will prepare for the late-night visit from Santa Claus and the magic of the holiday season:



Carley Saul, 5, plans to bake a few oatmeal cookies for Santa Claus to enjoy with a nice, tall glass of milk. She will also decorate her house and tree because “it makes Santa happy.” Finally, it will be time for bed. “It’s hard to go to sleep on Christmas Eve.”

Cameron Little, 5, said he has been a good little boy this year. “My mama said I was supposed to be good at school so Santa will come to my house.” He plans to bake “snow” cookies because “Santa likes cookies” and prepare him a glass of soda. Since Santa’s reindeer need nourishment, too, he said he will leave some food for them as well.

Madison Jackson, 6, cannot wait for Santa Claus to see all the decorations she has around her house, especially the lighted reindeer in the front yard. She plans to leave Santa some milk and “chocolate chip” cookies and some food for his team of reindeer. Before heading off to bed, she said she will make sure her stocking is hanging up and the fire in the fireplace has been extinguished. “I don’t want Santa to get burned when he comes down the chimney.”

Allie Fisher, 6, said she will leave Santa Claus some cookies, a glass of milk, and a note that begins “To Santa.” She said she might also leave a little water for his thirsty reindeer. “Santa will use the door to get in my house because it’s quiet.”

Payton Tomlinson, 5, plans to leave Santa a little milk and “two chocolate cookies because that’s his favorite kind.” Like other children, she will also leave a “little something” for the reindeer. She said falling asleep will be a little difficult. However, she will not try to catch Santa in the act. “He will give you coal if you do that.”



Brieanna Torres, 6, said she has “been good for Santa” despite a little squabbling with her sister. She plans to leave Santa some candy and cookies and the reindeer a snack.



Heather Robinette, 6, said Santa Claus will like her Christmas tree and decorations because “they are pretty.” Once she hangs her stocking and bakes Santa some cookies, she plans to head to bed.



Kaylee Green, 6, said she will make a little room under the Christmas tree for Santa to put her presents. She’s a little uncertain about baking Santa cookies. “Last year we made him some cookies, but I don’t think my mom has time this year.” She said falling asleep will be the biggest challenge. “I don’t really go to sleep right away. It’s hard to go to sleep.”



To contact reporter Jessica Pope, please call (229) 244-3400, ext. 255.