18 DECEMBER 2025 E veryone knows Old St. Nick, that genial, generous fellow from the North Pole. But as the saying goes, “ behind every successful man is a woman.” And that woman is usually the wife. Mrs. Claus is a kindhearted, nurturing and helpful wife – and contrary to the legend, she does far more than just bake cookies. The North Pole is a very busy place, bustling with activity all year long. Unlike Amazon distribution factories, there isn’t a robot in sight. No, all the toy-making, painting, wrapping and packaging is done by hand – thousands of tiny hands belonging to a legion of energetic, happy elves. Who do you think manages all those rambunctious characters? That’s right, Mrs. Claus! “I love my job and, of course, everyone here at the North Pole, most of all my darling Santa,” Mrs. Claus said. “These days, fewer women stay at home, choosing to pursue a career. That’s fine of course, but I’d rather tend to things around the toy factory, feed our reindeer, and bake my famous chocolate chip cookies.” Among Mrs. Claus’ other duties include her very favorite: reading millions of children’s wish list letters. Just last week she received a letter from a little girl who lives in a very special neighborhood known as Arcadia. It read: Dear Santa Claus, my name is Jessy and I live in Scottsdale. Do you know where that is? I hope so because I would like a dollhouse for Christmas. I have been a very good girl and my teacher at Hopi says I am even one of her favorites. My little brother is in kindergarten but his teacher doesn’t say that about him. I’m not sure what he would like for his present. I love you Santa Claus and I will leave you some milk and cookies. P.S. In case you lost my address, it is 5823 East Calle de Candy Cane. XO, Jessica Brown Asked about how she keeps up with all the mail, Mrs. Claus chuckled and said, “It helps to be a speed reader. Besides, Santa snores so I seldom sleep.” When her better half is busy during the hectic holiday season, Claus darns the elves’ slippers, tends to her strawberry gardens, needlepoints, and plays Mahjong with the gals down the way. With just a few weeks to go before Christmas Eve, Santa and Mrs. Claus are busy getting the sleigh and reindeers ready for that magical trip around the world. “That darn sleigh is older than I am,” Santa laughed, “but it always comes through when it’s time to take to the sky and deliver gifts to the children. And old Rudolph? Well, he’s as reliable as Mrs. Claus’ cast iron skillet.” Arcadia families are scurrying to receive the jolly old fellow, setting up their Christmas trees and lights, decorating their homes with stockings hung with care, and of course cleaning out chimneys so Santa doesn’t get soot on his red velvet cloak. “No matter,” Mrs. Claus said. “I’ve cleaned that coat so many times, I can do it with my eyes closed.” Merry Christmas, everyone! Mrs. Claus I love my job and, of course, everyone here at the North Pole.