Reindeer in Training at Disneyland's Big Thunder Ranch

http://www.disunplugged.com/2010/12/25/reindeer-in-training-at-disneylands-big-thunder-ranch/ One of Disneyland's coolest holiday experiences, for kids of any age, is offered at Big Thunder Ranch. During the holidays, the folks looking for a meet-up with Mr. Claus himself often discover it, but not many others. This is a historic area of Disneyland-Past -- home to the Mine Train through Nature's Wonderland, but for many, it seems like an empty path to nowhere. Little do they realize that there is a small area -- at the bend in the road -- that is home to goats, turkeys, a donkey, a cow, horses, and the like. During the holidays, they get some very special guests. That's why I was so excited when I had the opportunity to share them with you. Not only does Santa Claus come to Disneyland every year, to chat with kids in the cozy log cabin at the Ranch, but he also makes sure he can keep an eye on his 8 reindeer, as they prepare themselves for that long journey around the world on Christmas Eve! That's right. Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, and Blitzen are all in residence at the Ranch and are being cared for the Circle D Ranch Cast Members under Santa's watchful eye! To find out what it takes, I got a chance to speak with Maggie Gitchen, Santa's "chief caretaker" of the reindeer!