The North Pole

What could be more cool than getting to visit Santa and Mrs. Clause during their summer off? North of Anchorage is Fairbanks. Just beside Fairbanks, is the North Pole. We went there two summers ago and visited Santa's house.

It was a lot of fun. The kids got to meet and talk with the Clauses in person. Santa does a lot of traveling (obviously), so he knows a lot about different locations. We had a nice conversation about Florida (we had just moved from there) as well as other places that we have lived. Don't worry, we put in a good word with the Big Guy for our friends and family, too. These reindeer were back in Anchorage, but I couldn't resist putting these pictures in here. Look how much the kids have grown! These were taken right after we moved to Anchorage 3 summers ago. Time has gone by so fast! Here is Brandon tyring to convince me that we need one of these as a pet. I have to admit, they are much better behaved than Tink. I can't see one of these tearing down my Christmas tree and ripping open gifts. It might be something to consider. I just have to talk Santa into taking a cat as a trade in.

Santa's Reindeer

What do Santa's reindeer do in the off season, you may wonder. Well, lucky for you, those of us in Alaska know the secret. They hang out, eat lots of fresh green grass, and visit with the locals. Life is good for a reindeer. These pics are from a visit to the reindeer farm last summer.

I'm sure you are familiar with Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and the gang. Now you know what a baby reindeer looks like.

They are so cute. The younger ones have a light brown, fuzzy coat. It's their winter coat. As they get a little older and the weather gets warmer, they shed that coat and a sleek, darker brown one emerges. I'm sure it makes them more aerodynamic. It's all about the winter flight, you know.

They love to eat treats, too. The kids gave them some goodies as they passed on their Christmas wish lists to these fellas. I'm sure Santa got the message.

Did you know that all of Santa's reindeer are female? Both female and male reindeer grow antlers during the summer. Male reindeer lose their antlers in November and early December. Female reindeer don't lose their antlers until after they give birth in the Spring.

I hope this helps you get into the holiday season. Merry Christmas!