The Final Countdown at the North Pole
Christmas Eve does not just happen. It arrives after weeks of careful planning, a great deal of biscuit crumbs, and more lists than you would believe possible.
Right now, the North Pole is buzzing. The Nice List and the Naughty List are checked, rechecked, and checked again. Names are reviewed carefully, notes are updated, and yes, changes can still happen. Children sometimes ask if it is “too late” to make a good choice. The answer is no. The lists are never fully locked until Santa’s boots are on and the sleigh bells are jingling. Even then, I keep a pen handy. Old habits.
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While the lists are being finalised, the wrapping rooms are in full swing. Mountains of paper, ribbons, bows and labels cover every surface. Each present is wrapped by hand, checked twice, and stacked in the correct order. The elves are very proud of their wrapping skills, and rightly so. I have seen parcels wrapped while dancing across the floor. I still do not know how.
Next comes one of the most important jobs of all - loading Santa’s sleigh. Presents are organised by country, then by town, then by street. There is a system, even if it looks like cheerful chaos. Every sack is colour-coded and carefully packed so Santa can move quickly from rooftop to rooftop. A single mistake could mean opening the wrong sack in the wrong place, and nobody wants that.
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In between all of this, I keep a close eye on the team. Snacks are essential. Hot chocolate is non-negotiable. And rest is just as important as hard work. Christmas Eve is a very long night, and Santa and the reindeer need their energy. Early bedtimes are encouraged, even for elves who insist they are “wide awake” while yawning.
As for Santa, he pretends not to be nervous, but I know better. He checks the lists one last time, smooths his suit, and listens for the reindeer outside. When that moment comes, everything must be ready. No rushing. No shortcuts. Just Christmas, done properly.
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If you ever wonder how Christmas feels so magical, it is because of these final moments. Quiet care, careful choices, and a whole North Pole working together right up until the very last second.