Every year, children send their wish lists to Santa, with some even trying to catch a glimpse of him. However, Mrs. Claus often gets overlooked. In Bismarck, North Dakota, one woman is changing that. Laura Walters, also known as Mrs. Beatrix Claus, first donned her red dress and white wig a few years ago while working at the Dickinson Library. Story Time with Mrs. Claus was a huge success, attracting over 200 attendants.

Expanding the Reach

This year, Walters took the initiative and put out the word to see if other libraries would be interested in hosting her. The Bismarck Library quickly responded and welcomed her. Even before her official debut, she was reading to her nieces and nephews and recording the sessions to send to them. Now, with her sleigh making rounds from one library to another, more children get to experience the joy of reading with Mrs. Claus and asking her questions. She finds great satisfaction in this role as she sees the children's faces light up when they meet her. Many kids are initially afraid of Santa due to his full beard, but they seem to be drawn to Mrs. Claus.

The Impact on Children

For children like Elizabeth Fry, meeting Mrs. Claus face-to-face is an exciting experience. She expressed her hope of being on the good list. Mrs. Claus has a unique connection with the kids, making them feel at ease and creating lasting memories. Her presence brings a sense of warmth and magic during the holiday season.

Community Engagement

Walters' journey as Mrs. Claus has not only brought joy to the children but also engaged the community. Her sleigh stops at places like Beulah and Hazen have become events that families look forward to. It's not just about reading stories; it's about creating a sense of togetherness and spreading holiday cheer. Through her Facebook page, Mrs. Claus, ND, she continues to connect with more children and share the holiday spirit.