was in high school and I remember the way people ’ s eyes would light up when I delivered flowers to them ,” she says .
When the opportunity came to buy the shop , Bates said she knew it was another chance to spread happiness and give back to the community she loves .
In addition to her work at the shop , Bates is a licensed real estate agent and her commitment to service extends through numerous civic roles . She serves as the president of Altrusa International of Greenville , is a Hunt County Shared Ministries board member , a Main Street Advisory Board member , Ducks Unlimited treasurer and a Greenville Chamber of Commerce ambassador . Despite her many roles , Bates said her greatest joy is giving back .
“ I am truly blessed to be a part of this wonderful community ,” she says . “ Being Mrs . Claus is just one of the ways I feel I can give back . Bringing joy to children during the holiday season is something I ’ ll never take for granted .” For Bates , the role of Mrs . Claus has become a holiday calling – one that continues to enrich not only the lives of children but also her own . Through her warmth , her dedication and her tireless spirit , D ' Anna Bates is a true embodiment of the holiday spirit in Greenville .
Greenville Life Exclusive :
A 1-on-1 conversation with the first lady of Christmas
As the holiday season approaches , who better to chat with than
Mrs . Claus herself ? Sitting by a warm fire , sipping hot cocoa and with a plate of cookies nearby , Mrs . Claus shared her behind-thescenes perspective on what it takes to bring the magic of Christmas to life . The conversation was filled with joy , laughter and a few holiday secrets .
HB : When do you and the Big Guy start planning for the Christmas season ?
MC : We start planning the day after Christmas . It ’ s our favorite time of year so we can ’ t help but get excited for the next one .
HB : It ’ s said that behind every successful man is a good woman . Is that true with you and Santa ?
MC : Absolutely ! Behind every successful Santa is a Mrs . Claus , making sure he ’ s fueled up with cookies and milk and reminding him to double-check his list .
Greenville Life : Tell the truth , who do the kids like more , you or Santa ?
Mrs . Claus : Well , I like to think the kids love us both . Santa brings the magic and I bring the cookies . Together , we make the season bright
GL : It ’ s almost time to get the party started on Christmas Eve , how do you get Santa ready for his long journey ? Any wise words or a rousing pep talk ?
MC : We get ready by having a little holiday pep talk . We talk about all the joy we ’ ll spread , share some cookies and remind each other how excited the kids will be . It is all about teamwork and holiday spirit .
GL : Say a kiddo is worried about being on the naughty list , might you have some advice for them ?
MC : Oh , sweetie , the naughty list isn ’ t permanent . Just remember to be kind , listen to your parents and do your best every day . Every little good deed counts and I believe in second chances .
GL : Which is your favorite reindeer ? MC : My favorite reindeer is the most famous of all , Rudolph the
Red Nose Reindeer .
GL : How do you wind down after Christmas ? An island vacation ? A cruise ? A trip to Vegas ?
MC : Mrs . Claus loves to unwind by cozying up with a good book by the fire , sipping hot cocoa and enjoying some well-deserved relaxation . She also spends time with Santa , reminiscing about the joyful season and planning their next adventures together .
GL : Anything else Mrs . Claus would like to add ?
MC : I would just like to let all the young boys and girls know that they are so special just the way they are . Keep being kind and sharing your joy with others because that ’ s what makes the world bright .
GREENVILLE LIFE 7 HOLIDAY 2024