Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer shares his holiday story

Last holiday season, the Osceola Sentinel-Tribune (OST) ran an interview with Santa Claus. In keeping with the spirit of tradition, this year, the paper has interviewed the famous Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.

Here’s an exclusive look into one of the world’s most iconic reindeers.

(Side note: This article was translated into English from reindeer speak).

OST: What's it like guiding Santa's sleigh on Christmas Eve?

Rudolph: It's an honor to be the first eyes on the scene when traveling from house to house, country to country that night. Santa and the other reindeer trust me to steer them in the right direction so we can make sure all the girls and boys wake up to their holiday toys on Christmas day.

OST: How do you prepare for the long night ahead?

Rudolph: The reindeer try to be in the best shape possible come the end of December. We're on an exercise routine that includes a lot of cardio and building up our strength and stamina. There's also some Cross Fit training in there, too.

OST: Why does your nose get so red?

Rudolph: It was just the way I was born. The way I look at it, everybody has something unique about them, and that's what makes them special. However, while my nose glows red all the time, it's really the cold temperatures that really make it bright. Doesn't your nose turn red when you're out playing in the snow for a long time?

OST: Oh yeah, it most definitely does ... so, how well do you get along with the other reindeer?

Rudolph: We really are like one big family. Does that also mean we bicker and squabble sometimes? Sure it does, that's what families do. But, each reindeer brings something important to the Christmas cause. Cupid is really good at making sure everybody gets into the spirit of holiday love and cheer at the North Pole. Comet is really into the scientific process of going around the world in one night. Dancer is in charge of songs and holiday entertainment, and the list goes on and on.

OST: What's it like living at the North Pole?

Rudolph: Haha, there's no getting around this one — IT'S COLD! But, Santa and the elves are very good at making sure we are well taken care of. The North Pole has a huge, heated barn that we live in. We have all the newest technology at our disposal. There are a lot of reindeer games for us to play, too. Plus, how often do you get to hang out with Frosty the Snowman? He shows up from time to time to visit.

OST: How about a few fun questions now? What is your favorite type of cookie?

Rudolph: Well, I should say that reindeer enjoy being left carrots outside to eat on Christmas Eve. It helps us with our eyesight. Reindeer like to indulge in sugary sweets, though. My personal favorite is chocolate chip, but I am partial to sugar cookies with holiday frosting.

OST: Do you have a nickname, Rudolph?

Rudolph: Red Rudy, that's what my closest friends call me.

OST: You sound like a very smart and well-educated reindeer. Tell me, do reindeer have to go to school?

Rudolph: Oh yes, I graduated from NPHS. That stands for North Pole High School, but I can't say when because that will reveal just how old I am. I can reveal it's the spirit of Christmas that keeps all of us here in Santa's village young and energetic as the years fly by.

OST: What was your hardest subject in reindeer school?

Rudolph: It's just like the famous song says, "You'll go down in history." A's in almost every subject but history. I got C's in history, which is funny because I've been around for a long time.

OST: Well, it has been wonderful talking to you, thank you so much!

Rudolph: And you! Merry Christmas everybody!