I do think, however, that being honest (while also seeking to maintain -- and even emphasize -- the spirit of Christmas rather than just slap it down like this grinch-lady did) sends a message to our kids:
Your parents really are honest with you. You can trust what they say.
And you've brought to mind a point that I don't think anybody has covered here. People have talked about the delight of believing in a mystical Santa Claus who flies from the north pole with reindeer to deliver presents to good children. That delight is real and undeniable.
But how many kids also remember the disappointment of finding out that it wasn't really true?
So it's not just a one-edged sword. It's two-edged. The delight eventually turns (no matter whether or not it's a big disappointment) to disappointment.
I don't expect everyone to do things our way. But I do feel that our way is a good way, and it's right for us. And I don't think any of our kids feel the slightest bit deprived. And I have every confidence that they would laugh at the notion they've been deprived, and say the same.