"Now Mom, be honest with me....."

So, as most parents do, we have tried to stress the importance of telling the truth, no matter the consequence. I have said many times to the girls..."now be honest with me and you won't get in as much trouble". That being said, I am lying in the bed and Carleigh jumps up beside me and says "Mom, now be honest with me...Is Santa Claus real?". I felt conflicted because I didn't want to ruin the idea of that for her, but had to walk what I talk..I replied..."No, he isn't Carleigh". That led us down a path of maturity and the reality that she is so amazing. I threatened her with all my tricks to keep the secret for Sadie and if she could do this, she could help be "Santa" next Christmas. Everyday Carleigh continues to remind me that she is really growing up and I couldn't be more proud!