Holiday greetings from McMurdo Station

Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the station, the workers were thinking of exotic vacations;
the beakers all prayed that their wishes be blessed, that good old St. Nicholas make their 'xperiments a success;
the penguins and seals lazed down on the burgs, waiting for fishes in schools and in herds;
when off in the distance a creature approached, a spec in the ocean, a shiny red coach;
A sleigh! A sleigh!
cried the folks at the Base;
with ribbons and holly and a jolly red face;
St Nicholas had come and with gifts he was riding, twas pulled by 12 orcas with skis made for gliding;
He called to the folks "gather round!" "gather round!" "I've something for all, some great wisdom I've found";
The gifts that I bring can't be bought, lost or sold;
They come from within every heart, every soul;
I bring you good times filled with holiday cheer, the ones that you share with your neighbors and peers;
For all that we have on these cold, quiet days, is the laughter and happiness found in so many ways;
By those who can share in our passion and drive, to make each day special and to feel more alive;
I hope all can see what I seek to make clear, that what you all wish for is already here;
May the warmth within each of you keep the fire burning, and the spirit you share keep McMurdo station turning