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NORTH POLE
Christmas trees are decorated, stockings are hung by woodstoves, and Nunavut children of all ages are now awaiting Santa Claus' visit on Christmas Eve.

Santa Claus found time in his busy schedule to sit down with Nunavut News/North and discuss his preparations for this year's holiday season. - photo courtesy of MultiAd

Nunavut News/North caught up with the jolly old man in red as final preparations were underway at his workshop in the North Pole.

Things at the workshop were understandably busy.

"The elves have come up with some new toys," he said. "There have been some new electronics invented and lots of colours and graphics to engage children in reading, writing and math activities."

The elves are busy packing and wrapping toys for all the good girls and boys across Nunavut and the world. Santa's helpers are sporting new uniforms this year, he noted.

"The uniforms have allowed the elves to have more time for play and socializing," said Santa. "So between their energy and creative outbursts, we are able to be more creative and we're able to be faster in production lines because they're happier."

And the elves are busy getting the sleigh ready in time for Christmas Eve. As for the reindeer - Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen and Rudolph - they have grown bigger, said Santa.

"Their coats are nice and shaggy and they're ready for the cold winter," said Santa. "The elves are also busy inventing temperature coolers for the reindeer so they're able to visit all the hot places in the world and not have to worry about their fur."

The weather at the North Pole has been up and down, Santa said

"We've had lots of ice fog so I'm making sure the elves are going to install extra lights and Rudolph has extra sleep so his nose will be bright for Christmas Eve," he said.

Santa is also finalizing his naughty and nice list, delivering presents to all those who have been good this year. Santa said there are "wonderful children" in Nunavut, staying in school, learning traditional skills on the land and working on their Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principles.

"I would just like to make sure all the good boys and girls recognize the importance of staying in school and listening to their parents and following the bylaws of their community as well as making sure they eat healthy," he said.

Just a few more sleeps and Christmas will be here. Santa went back to the workshop to help the elves and the reindeer get ready for the night before Christmas. Mrs. Claus is also supporting Santa.

"My wife is so supportive and always makes sure I have enough sleep," said Santa. "Her secret ingredient to my success is her hot chocolate with marshmallows."

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