A New Ride

Happy August, Everyone! Christmas is getting closer every day. I was reminded of that today when we took delivery of the new sleigh. It has been in the works for over two years (see December 15, 2005 post). With a growing population driving increased loads each Christmas, we were on the verge of outgrowing the capacity of the previous sleigh. This new sleigh is not only going to meet our capacity demands for the next 10 years, it is faster and more efficient. When we first began this project, we thought we would need an additional 2 reindeer as well; however, the new sleigh is so efficient that we can remain with the existing team for the foreseeable future.

The new sleigh was developed in partnership between Boeing, BMW, and Northpole Reindeer Aerospace Engineering (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northpole Inc.). Let me tell you... its one sweet ride. I took it out this afternoon along with Jolly and the full reindeer team. Wow! The acceleration is stunning. I was literally pinned to the back of my seat on lift off. And the maneuvering was unlike anything I had experienced in the former sled. I may just have to take this thing out joy-riding again tonight. Too much fun.

And its a beauty. Dark red with platinum trim on the exterior. I had grown tired of the gold trim and the new look is much more contemporary. BMW put their blue/purple/red M-badge on the back. Walnut Madeira Chestnut Brown paneling accents and Merino leather interior. The seats are incredibly comfortable.. and that's very important on Christmas Eve when I spend 24 hours in the sleigh.

So keep an eye out for me in the night skies tonight... particularly those of you in northern Europe, Canada, and eastern Russia. I'll be out enjoying the new ride after dinner with Mrs. Claus. Just look for Rudolph's bright red nose. But for now, it's off to dinner... good night.