It’s no big secret how Santa Claus spends his time. But, have you ever wondered what Mrs. Claus does all year? Charlotte native, Ally Grabel, has a theory — she skateboards.
In fact, Grabel portrays the skateboarding Mrs. Claus throughout the year at various events, including this past year at Common Ground Festival in Lansing. Her portrayal has become such an attraction that Grabel figured it was time to give Mrs. Claus a more prominent role during the holidays, releasing the book Mrs. Claus Skateboards at the Modern Skate Park.
The children’s book showcases how Mrs. Claus uses skateboarding to teach all of her holiday friends about playing together.
The idea to dress up as Mrs. Claus came about during a fundraiser when she thought it would be fun to dress up and play Christmas music on her guitar while dropping on a half-pipe. She found it got a decent response from the crowd. However, she said she never felt comfortable asking for donations just to watch her skate. So, she came up with idea to create a coloring book depicting Mrs. Claus on her skateboard.
The idea evolved from a simple coloring book to a full story for children.
“The book teaches children that everyone can have fun together,” Grabel said.
She will be at Modern Skate Park in Royal Oak this Saturday, Dec. 21 from 1 to 4 p.m. Those that bring a new, unwrapped toy can skate for free. A portion of the sale of her book goes towards the Toys for Tots program. Grabel said she plans on donating a few books to the Charlotte Community Library.
Grabel got her start in professional skateboarding when Modern Skate and Surf offered her a spot on their Modern Skateboard team 10 years ago. Since she has toured the Midwest with the team, performing at various events and competitions, including Christmas in July at Comerica Park, where Mrs. Claus really took off.
You can find out more about Ally Grabel and Mrs. Claus at mrsclaussk8s.weebly.com or by searching 1InsaneGuitar on YouTube.
