Monday, December 26, 2011

Fooled!

What a month.

So many orders to fill.

So many problems in the factories that caused delays.

So many elves down with the flu!

So many malls and centers and other places to visit.

And then there was my feast day.

There were whispers and winks and plans afoot indeed. But not for me.

It was all for Krampus!

You see, some of the elves were saddened to hear that children fear him. They know what a good soul he really is, and they thought that unfair. So they planned a party for him.

After we got back from our St. Nicholas Day deliveries, he and I headed over to my house. I was expecting some sort of surprise. And when we walked into my home, sure enough, elves jumped out of every possible corner, hiding place, even the rafters, yelling, "Surprise!"

It took me a second to realize that their cries were all directed at Krampus.

I laughed with delight (and relief), and joined a chorus of, "For he's a jolly good fellow...."

Then the kitchen elves carried in cakes, cookies, pies, candies, and warming beverages.

I was tired, but I found the energy to joyfully join in on the celebration. And Krampus, well, I've never seen him blush so much.

The elves gave him a switch and a lump of coal as a joke, then they gave him a new coat, a new hat, a new pair of boots, all to help him stay comfortable and warm.

He was pleased. So was I.

Merry Christmas to all!

Monday, December 05, 2011

Prefeast whispers, and Krampus arrives

The whispers continue. And the winks. And the sudden silences when I approach.


I'm sure they are up to something to mark my feast day.

But first, the feast itself.

I will be heading out shortly to place candy and coins and some small gifts in shoes for children. Krampus - some people call him Black Peter - arrived two days ago to join me for our annual excursion. He has coal and switches for those who have not been on their best behavior.

Krampus really is a jolly soul - far more jolly than some folks try to picture him. He cares about the children just as I do. And I love sitting with him and remembering our many travels.

I also enjoy the visit back to Holland, where the feast is still celebrated. They have such fine hot chocolate!

Besides, it will take my mind off just what my loved ones here are plotting!

Saturday, December 03, 2011

There may be plans afoot

My feast day is coming up Tuesday.

Normally Mrs. Claus and I celebrate it privately, except for getting to Mass, with a nice dinner the next day. The actual day, of course, I'm busy delivering gifts.

But this year I've heard some whispering among the elves about the date, with some quick glances at me, and then some giggles.

I suspect they are planning something.

It's not an special anniversary year. I entered my current way of life in 343, so it's only been 1,668 years.

Part of me is tempted to steal away to some place where they won't fin me, but that would not be fair, I suppose.

I guess I'll just have to smile and enjoy whatever they have planned.

Maybe it will even be nothing at all - that would be a joke on me!