Once upon a time, Indianapolis resident John L. Belden, a journalist and writer, discovered his beard was taking a certain shape. He already liked helping people, so it seemed natural he would join the community of gentlemen who help represent Santa Claus. His companion Wendy Carson, also his partner in the theatre review blog PlaysWithJohnAndWendy.com, joined him as Mrs. Claus. They joined the support community of Hoosier Santas, as well as the professional organization International Brotherhood of Real-Bearded Santas, and graduated the renowned Susen Mesco Santa Claus School. Their appearances include at Lifejourney Church in Indianapolis and the Bartholomew County Animal Shelter in Columbus, Indiana. John also had the privilege of appearing as Santa at the little church where he grew up, First Baptist Church of Casa, Arkansas.