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The concept of the American Santa Claus originated with St. Nicholas, who was born in Asia Minor in 280 A.D. He was known as a kind, benevolent man; indeed made a saint because of his generosity. In honor of St. Nicholas, December 6 became the traditional day in Europe for the exchange of Christmas gifts and the beginning of the holiday season. Dutch immigrants to the United States brought with them their version of the gift-giving St. Nicholas, known as Sinter Klass. Americans, unaccustomed to the Dutch pronunciation, turned this into “Santa Claus”, who is beloved as a symbol of Christmas by children of all ages.
December 18th, 2008
The candy cane begins with a stick of white candy. The white symbolizes the purity of the Christmas season. Red stripes are for the blood shed by Christ on the cross so that we may have eternal life. The candy is formed into a “J” to represent the precious name of Jesus. It can also represent the staff of the Good Shepherd. Its hard consistency represents the Solid Rock, the foundation of the church, and the firmness of the promises of God.
December 17th, 2008
Because it stays green all through the year, the evergreen tree is symbolic of the eternal life offered to Christians through faith in Christ. The treetop points heavenward. A star signifies the special star which guided the wise men to Bethlehem. Lights represent Christ, the “Light of the World”. Gifts beneath the tree are representative of God’s gift of His only begotten Son, who brings Hope, Love, Joy and Peace.
December 16th, 2008
Originating in ancient Egypt, beer is almost as old as civilization itself. In medieval times, monks brewed beer for a nourishing drink, which was permitted while fasting. Considered a valuable source of nutrition, beer played an important role in daily lives and workers were often paid with jugs of beer. The brewing of beer is considered by many to be the oldest manufacturing art practiced by man.
December 15th, 2008
Mexican legend tells of a boy who had no giftto put by the figure of baby Jesus in church on Christmas Eve. On his way to church he heard an angel tell him to pick some dried weeds for his gift. As he laid them beside the other gifts, the weeds turned into beautiful flowers. Dr. Joel Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, brought the plant to the United States where it was named “poinsettia”.
December 14th, 2008
According to German tradition, the pickle brings good luck and was the last ornament placed on the tree. On Christmas morning the first child to find the gherkin was rewarded with an extra little gift left by St. Nicholas. This tradition encouraged the children to appreciate all the ornaments on the tree, rather than hurrying to see what St. Nick had left for them.
December 13th, 2008
Happy First Birthday, Gaetano! The year flew by s-o-o-o fast! Hope you have a very special day!
November 1st, 2008
It has been a really rough year for you, but I’m hoping things will finally turn around. With your head pain under control, and returning to Georgia tomorrow, maybe life will start to fall back into place. Hope you have a great day today!!
October 19th, 2008
Hey, John. Hope you had a great birthday! Almost missed this one. There are just too many things going on this time of year!!
October 10th, 2008
Despite today’s weather, hope your birthday is sunny and bright! Can’t wait to see pictures from your trip!
October 8th, 2008
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