A Right Jolly Old Elf

You have the Santa spectacles. You have the leather boots or boot tops. You have the full Santa Hat and beard. You've got the requisite padding. And despite Hollywood's trend that started with "Bad Santa," you have a smile in your heart and a ho-ho-ho on your lips. Plus you're not drunken like the Santa in "Miracle on 34th Street." You're ready in your Santa Claus costume.

Some other holly jolly holiday hints for bringing comfort and joy in your Santa costume:

* While candy canes and cookies are always welcome at Christmas, some parents may want the kids not to have so much sugar. Carry healthy snacks in your Santa sack.
* Flick those reins if you're in the sleigh, the way Kris Kringle did, as played byRichard Attenborough or Edmund Gwenn in "Miracle on 34th Street".
* Here's a tip from AnytimeCostumes.com: If you have a full natural beard, get temporary haircolor to maintain the illusion of the white-bearded Santa. If not, get a full beard and wig.
* Santa doesn't work alone! Recruit friends and fellow employees or volunteers to dress in a gingerbread man costume, reindeer costume and an elf costume or two.
* The best Santa Claus costume accessories you can wear are a merry smile, look of genuine interest in children, and red healthy color in those cheeks. If you're naturally pale, try jogging around the mall or drinking some of Santa's hot chocolate!
* Make sure the Santa costume is comfortable, especially the trousers--you don't want to look uncomfortable or grumpy on that dais!

Most of all, have fun. That's the best Santa Claus costume accessory.