GulfCoastNewsToday.com obtained these exclusive and rare photos of Santa's famed reindeer taking on extra fuel and water on Friday, as final preparations continue for the annual worldwide run of gift delivery.  Shown here are Prancer (foreground) and Donner, enjoying some extra grazing time prior to launch date.

As the hours continue to count down to takeoff from the North Pole, Santa reminds children along the Gulf Coast who may not have been "good" all year -- along with adults too -- that there is still time to turn in good deeds prior to Christmas Eve.  "I'm taking notes and updating my 'list', checking it twice you might say, right up until takeoff on the 24th," said the jolly Mr. Claus. 

Santa added, "The reindeer look as fit, healthy and ready to fly as I've ever seen.  I was particularly moved by those letters to me and the missus by the children from down that way, their love and concern for the reindeer, so we're just making sure they get plenty of rest and take on some extra fuel.  It's a long haul to make in a single night.  We always look forward to it, and are honored to bring a little extra Christmas joy to the children of the world."