Postal Reindeer and other phenomenon

Monday I went to the post office to get some stamps, and the lines were out the door and halfway down the sidewalk. I climbed back in my car and opted for another day. Tuesday I tried again, and even at our tiny North Chili office, the lines were not only long, but discouraging. When you see people wheeling dollies loaded with boxes from their SUVs, its a bit depressing to think you might end up in line behind them!

I braved it yesterday, and by the time I got to the counter, it was obvious that the three clerks, who were all working fast and furiously, were stretched to their limits. I had watched the big bin emptied three times in less than twenty minutes, and though the clerks were all polite, it was a strained atmosphere. No one was smiling or making small talk. Just answering necessary questions. Period.

Today I went in to mail a small package, and there were still lines and *lots* of laughter and friendliness. What a change of atmosphere! When I approached the counter, I began to understand some of the reason for the welcomed change. I was amused to find myself being greeted by a reindeer.

Apparently, whenever Suzie is on duty, she finds interesting ways of expressing her joy with whatever season is currently underway. Today, she sprouted antlers with little jingle bells, a brown turtleneck, a brown corduroy skirt, and klunky brown boots. While she was assisting me with my package, people were taking her picture and chatting about how yesterday she was an elf, and tomorrow she would be a snowman. Everyday she attires her little car with matching accessories. Today her Cooper had matching antlers affixed to the luggage racks, and a big red "nose" on the radiator.

Last Easter she showed up as a bunny, a chick, a decorated egg, and a chocolate bar. Hum. Fashionable. And way better than the strained conversation of yesterday. All three stations were manned, people kept coming in, but somehow the tempers were not short, the lines moved along, and the mail was processed all with a bit of flavor.

I wonder what her supervisor thinks? Can you imagine her annual evaluation? "Employee approaches work with enthusiasm and creativity." "Uniform somewhat nontraditional." "Customer service with a smile and a jingle." Well, kudos to Suzie for her boldness and zest for life. Thanks for bringing joy to an otherwise tiresome task.