One of the best things about Christmas is the traditions that make your family’s celebration unique and memorable. One of our family favourites is a story that Gabe and I read before sleepy time every Christmas Eve - when we wouldn’t dream of turning in without leaving a snack for Santa and the reindeer. I hope you and your kids enjoy it and that it becomes one of your Christmas traditions too!

T’was the night before Christmas and in the kitchen of the house,
the two kids stirring were definitely not a mouse.
Nicholas and Noel were on a top-secret mission,
Santa and his team of reindeer needed nighttime vision.

Everybody knows that Santa’s route is very long,
he can’t make a turn that’s even a tiny bit wrong.
The two little chefs hoped a special treat would help,
they knew that the reindeer were sick of eating just kelp

They were cooking up a potion, making something new,
the pot was full of tasty stuff, a very healthy stew.
Carrots, grains, maple and a few kitchen staples
Salt, pepper, seasoning,
and a big green smelly thing.

They filled two bowls and set them near the tree,
next to them they put a huge plate of brie
Santa’s bowl was regular size - just enough for him,
the reindeers was super sized and filled to the brim

Nicholas and Noel climbed the stairs to their beds,
as they drifted off to sleep, they dreamed about big sleds.
The kitchen was still scented with heavenly smells,
when the air suddenly filled with faint jingle bells.

Up on the roof came a huge big bump,
it sounded like someone had fallen on their rump.
The big red sled was upside down,
Santa’s face - a great big frown
A full load of booty,
next to the chimney black and sooty.

Santa needed help so he took a look below,
the reindeers were extra pleased when he returned very slow.
In his hands he balanced a giant bowl of stew,
they took one look and knew what to do.

The Christmas delivery team went on a feeding tear,
in no time at all, the bowl was completely bare.
With great big smiles and bellies nice and full,
Santa and the reindeer gave the sled a great big pull.

It flipped right over and landed on its skis,
Santa filled his sack and fell to his knees.
He jumped down the chimney and went straight up to the tree,
he left a pile of the best gifts ever, anyone would agree.

A Cuisinart and a custard mold,
the greatest recipe ever told.
Mandolins and Moroccan spices,
this years latest free-range organic rices.

Santa and the reindeer thanked Nicholas and Noel before they left,
it was a special story that none of them would forget.
Into the dark Christmas night they flew,
now they could see their way, straight and true!