Crafty Old Elf Said To Be Making Test Run

ANN got a news tip Santa Claus was planning to test his delivery system on the Saturday before Christmas Eve. Although the full details of his plans were unclear, our sources told us he would be stopping at Saint Louis Metro-East/Shafer Field in Saint Jacob, IL to take a short break. Luckily, one of our reporters was on the scene.

The jolly old elf was surprised by a waiting crowd of eager children both young and old who had also gotten wind of Santa's plans.

Santa stepped from his aircraft (he wouldn't use the sleigh on a test run -- too obvious) and was met by Mrs. Claus who had brought him a little lunch.

A local resident who was there to meet Santa with his children said, "This is great; I can't believe we were lucky enough to see Santa!" When one of his boys asked him if the airplane had come from the North Pole he said, "I don't know, it looks like it's flown through some snow and ice to me."

Despite his hunger from a long day of testing, the jolly old fellow couldn't resist taking a few moments to say hi to the gathered kids. Before he knew it, he found himself with one on each knee and a big crowd all around!

Using a little of the magic that makes him so special, Kris Kringle produced a few "surprises" of his own to the delight of the kids.

One of the children told our reporter, "This isn't the first time I've seen Santa this year. I saw him at the market square in town -- except he wasn't in an airplane then, he was riding a motorcycle."

Santa sure knows how to get around...

A couple of youngsters even remembered their manners and offered Santa some refreshments which he accepted with thanks and a smile!

The young man, who along with his sister brough Santa the cookies, discovered Santa is a Cardinals fan, and they took a moment to celebrate the Redbirds' World Series victory this year!

After a spending a few more minutes of time with the kids, Santa told them he had to finish his test run to make sure everything was ready for Christmas Eve. Everyone eagerly agreed and wished Santa a safe journey back to the North Pole. It seems they all wanted to make sure Santa works out his delivery plan so he can get to their houses tonight!

So with a twinkle in his eye, a smile on his lips, a friendly wave and a hearty HO-HO-HO, Santa climbed nimbly back into his aircraft and headed out to finish his test run.

ANN sincerely hopes Santa's plan for all the good boys and girls works out this year!

FMI: www.northpole.com