Santa Ate My Cookies, But It’s Cool: A Frenchie’s Christmas Morning

Guys, Christmas is FINALLY here! And you know what that means. SANTAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! I like to think of myself as a pretty happy-go-lucky pup, but let me tell you, my energy today is literally unmatched. Andy Williams wasn’t kidding when he said this is the most wonderful time of the year! Let me walk you through my Christmas morning because, wow, what a day it’s been already.

First off, I barely slept last night. I mean, how could I? I knew Santa was coming, and I just couldn’t stop thinking about all the toys and treats he might bring me. Every time I closed my eyes, I imagined squeaky toys, chew sticks, and maybe—just maybe— my mega 8-foot bone. My tail was wagging even in my sleep! Around 4 a.m., I just couldn’t take it anymore. I jumped right onto Mom and Dad’s bed and started my patented “Frenchie Wake-Up Call.” You know the one—lots of snorting, little paws tapping on their faces, and, of course, my big, dramatic sighs. There were some threats, I’m not going to lie. The parentals were not too happy about being woken up so early, but I won’t apologize for my excitement.

Finally, the time came for all of us to head downstairs. I ran ahead as fast as lightning, or at least as fast as my little French Bulldog legs were capable of, and made my way to our living room. And there it was: the Christmas tree, covered in lights and shiny ornaments. But more importantly, beneath it, a pile of presents with MY name on them. I couldn’t believe my eyes!

Before I let myself get too distracted, I had an important job to do. I trotted over to the plate of cookies we left out for Santa last night. I sniffed it carefully—yep, he’d been here! The cookies were gone, and the milk glass was empty. I gave the plate a thorough inspection just to be sure there weren’t any crumbs left for me. No luck. That Santa guy is thorough. Don’t worry, though, guys, I was able to hold back my tears.

Then, it was time to open presents. This part is a bit of a blur for me because I was so hyped up, but I do remember some pretty cool stuff coming out of those festive bags. A new collar with my name on it (because, let’s be real, everyone needs to know who the coolest dog in the neighborhood is), a squishy stuffed reindeer that makes a hilarious noise when you squeeze it (perfect for playing tug-of-war), and even some tasty bacon-flavored treats! It’s like Santa knows all my favorite things. And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, Mom pulled out a beautiful red sweater with jingle bells on it. I must admit, I wasn’t too excited about wearing a sweater at first, but once those jingle bells started chiming with every step I took, I could feel my inner diva coming out.

I was a little disappointed that I didn’t get the mega 8-foot bone – I mean, come on, Santa, how hard is it to break into an Argentinian museum and steal the femur of a 70-ton animal? But hey, there’s always next year! Plus, at the end of the day, Christmas isn’t about the presents or the cookies—it’s about spending time with loved ones and feeling grateful for all the joy in our lives. And let me tell you, as a dog, I am lucky enough to experience that love and joy every single day.

So, as I sit here in my new sweater, sipping on some leftover milk (because, let’s face it, Santa can’t finish a whole glass), and surrounded by my family, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for being a part of my life and for making this Christmas one to remember. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some squeaky toys to play with and treats to munch on.

Oh, and Santa? If by any chance you’re reading this, just a little reminder for next year: I still really want that mega bone. Just saying. But no pressure or anything. Have a holly, jolly Christmas, everyone! See you in the new year!

-Winston