Santa and his reindeer get ready to take flight

You know, as a kid, I always wanted to see how Santa Claus and his team of eight tiny reindeer actually got ready for their annual flight. But given that Connecticut is an awfully long way away from the North Pole, I never got the chance to see what the jolly old elf did prior to Christmas Eve ... until just recently.

You see, earlier this month, I was out in Anaheim. And -- as I was touring Disneyland -- I came across this banner ...

Photo by Jeff Lange

Which led me to this sign ...

Photo by Jeff Lange

And -- sure enough -- Santa and his reindeer had temporarily taken up residence at Big Thunder Ranch.

Photo by Jeff Lange

While I was visiting the ranch, most of the reindeer there seemed to be snoozing. As if they were saving up energy for that trip 'round the world on December 24th.

Photo by Jeff Lange

Mind you, a few appeared to be pulling on the old feedbag. Storing up as much energy as they could.

Photo by Jeff Lange

But I guess you burn off a lot of calories while you're hauling Santa and that huge sleigh around. Speaking of Mr. Claus, I caught him making his list and checking it twice ...

Photo by Jeff Lange

And -- as it turns out -- I guess that this turkey must have been really nice this year ...

Photo by Jeff Lange

For President Bush opted to pardon him. Rather than serve this tom up as the main course at the White House's Thanksgiving dinner.

Photo by Jeff Lange

Anywho ... That's the news for all you folks out there who believe in Santa. That Mr. Claus and his team are rested & refreshed after spending a few weeks in Anaheim. So I'm sure that they'll all do a swell job tomorrow night.

Happy Holidays, everyone!

Jeff Lange is the staff photographer / archivist here at JHM. He recently launched his own series of unofficial Disney theme park DVDs. Which now includes "California Candelight," a full recording of the 2005 Candlelight Procession from Disneyland. Which was narrated by Disney Legend *** Van ***. 

For further information on "California Candlelight" and/ or any of the other entertaining & informative DVDs that Mr. Lange has produced, we suggest that you follow this link.