As landscapers and flower farmers, folks are often curious as to what we do all winter long. Honestly, there is a lot of resting and healing our bodies. A vacation is often in order, especially if we have an exceptionally good year. While we typically travel south towards the warm weather, a few years back we were invited to a cooler destination to visit the North Pole.
Traveling to the North Pole is no small feat. Besides the usual challenges of passports, airplane trips, and potential weather delays, we found out that commercial transportation still left us with 60 miles to travel before reaching our destination. Luckily, within minutes of finding our luggage at the airport, two elves arrived to help us navigate the last leg of our trip. With a little science and even more magic, we hopped on a chunk of ice and floated towards Santa’s village. The northern lights danced across the sky, pointing us in the right direction. Time flew by and soon we were greeted by a huge crowd of short elves, dressed in green and red outfits. They all were so excited to see us! Hugs were exchanged and we were on our way, excited and ready for fun!
We were escorted to our accommodations, happily chatting the entire time with the inquisitive elves. They were the friendliest group that I had ever met! We learned that Santa eats one cookie from each house that he visits, and brings home all of the extra cookies to share with the elves. Santa is so generous! He knows that the elves work hard and they love cookies just as much as he does – perhaps even more!
After touring the village most of the first day, we decided to head to bed early before our big day with Santa. Our beds were a bit small, but the blankets and pillows were so cozy. We fell fast asleep near a crackling fireplace, while visions of sugarplums danced in our heads. It’s true!
Breakfast was hearty and filling, served with loads of maple syrup. Mrs. Claus (she asked us to call her Holly), came to fetch us and took us to the stables. The reindeer were ready for their morning treats of oats and carrots. They were bigger than I thought they would be, but had kind eyes and nuzzled us lovingly when we gave them big hugs. We heard heavy boot steps and jingle bells and turned when we heard a belly laugh followed by “Ho Ho Ho!” It was Santa! He was big and jolly, and knew everything we had done in the last year. Luckily, we had both made the “Nice” list. The day was filled with tours of the toy shop, post office, and garage. Did you know Santa has a big red semi? It is his backup toy hauler for the years with no snow on Christmas. After that, we were off to Santa’s house for dinner.
Mrs. Claus, I mean Holly, had prepared a feast! We had baked ham, roast turkey, mashed potatoes, buttery corn, tender green beans, and a dessert of apple pie – fresh from the oven! My tummy was so full! We all helped Holly clear the table and wash dishes, trying to stay on the “Nice” list. We moved to the cozy chairs near the fireplace with hot cocoa and Santa talked for hours about his many adventures. He was grateful to the children who leave out milk and cookies, and especially thankful for all of the reindeer treats. It was a lovely evening, filled with laughter and joy. We eventually made it back to the hotel and had the best sleep we ever had.
The next day we hugged everyone in town goodbye, and began our trip back home. We felt rested and energized; ready to take on the tasks of the new season ahead. We can’t wait to go back and visit again. Remember, Santa is always watching!
The Plant Lady is a regional horticulturalist with the goal of making Bluff Country more beautiful – one garden at a time. Follow her on Facebook @PlantLadyMn for helpful tips and tricks, or via email at [email protected].