Editor’s note: Spoiler alert re: the Tooth Fairy and Santa Claus.

I found it wrapped in tissue and tucked within the zippered pocket of my purse. The small pearly white gem had been there for a month and we’d all forgotten about it – even the Tooth Fairy. Sam, 11, has been losing the last of his baby teeth at a rapid rate. Evidently, our pastor preaches tooth-rattling sermons, because lately the teeth have come out during church on Sunday morning. At some point during the service Sam scoots past us in the pew with his hand clasped over his mouth. He eventually returns with bloody paper towels protruding from his lips. I can only imagine what the people who sit behind us must think. Alas, this rite of passage has caused some tension in our home. One of Sam’s parents is unwilling to part with the magic and mystery of the Tooth Fairy. The other has been there, done that and moved on/Cindy Hval, Washington Voices. More here.

• Also, by Cindy: Earthman a serial celebrant at 102
  

Question: Did/do your children believe in the Tooth Fairy and Santa Claus?