R is for...Reindeer

If it wasn't for Father Christmas' magical team of flying reindeer there wouldn't be any presents delivered. The original team of eight reindeer were named by Clement C. Moore in A Visit from St. Nicholas (better known as The Night Before Christmas) as Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen. In 1939 a story was written by Robert L. May for the American department store Montgomery Ward. It was a tale written in verse about a reindeer named Rudolph who was mocked due to him having a bright red nose. However, one foggy Christmas Eve Santa is unable to fly his sleigh but thankfully he finds Rudolph who is able to guide them. The story is now more famous thanks to it being turned into a song that was originally released in 1949.

This is the poem I wrote to leave out for when Father Christmas comes, leaving the reindeer waiting outside. You can put it in a clear cellophane bag or write it on an envelope but don't forget to put some oats and glitter in. The glitter is very important otherwise the the reindeer won't leave any sparkly trail in the sky!

A flash of silver across a starry sky.

Could it be Santa, his sleigh and reindeer?

It's been a long night and it's not over yet.

More toys to deliver and presents to give.

Have you been good?

Will your stocking be filled?

You've left a mince pie for Santa or a cookie or two.

But what about Rudolph and his reindeer friends?

Please leave them this food with a magical sparkle and help them keep flying until Christmas Eve ends.