My family has a long tradition. December 19, we share with each other in a good mood, smile and give gifts as well as the ability to gather all together evening, that for aromatic glass of hot tea in a warm and pleasant company, to tell the good news and joyful events. It's like a little rehearsal for the upcoming New Year holidays. I want to tell you why in my family so revered that day.
Santa Claus, Joulupukki, Pear Noel, Yuletomte - all are names of the same well-known to all of us and much loved character, which in our country we know as Santa Claus. It turns out that the good Father Christmas has a real prototype - St. Nicholas, one of the most popular Christian patrons. December 19, the day of his memory, begins a series of long-awaited winter holidays. According to believers, the Wonderworker blesses the people and their property, a refuge from the destructive forces of winter.
In countless legends that have come down to our times, he appears as a man with a big heart who has made a lot of good deeds. He was born in the Turkish city of Patara in 257 year. Orphaned early and received an inheritance, he began to help those in need.
Widespread one story connected with the name Nicholas. A ruined merchant, to improve their affairs, wanted to send his three daughters beauties sell themselves. St Nicholas rescued them from the shame and grievous share by planting late in the evening at the window bags with coins. One of them happened to be in a stocking. Some people believe that this is what originated the custom of hanging Christmas stockings by the fireplace and socks, to the morning to discover in them the gifts. According to another legend, secretly helping people, he threw the money into the chimney. Hence arose the belief that Santa Claus enters the house through the chimney.
Since ancient times, December 19 is considered to be children's holiday. On this day, the children receive goodies from St. Nicholas. In northern European countries, it was decided to write him letters with their wishes.
St. Nicholas Day in Russia marked the beginning of winter the Christmas holidays. He held noisy and fun. Hospitable Nikolsky fairs were accompanied by festive festivities. Abundant feast, a mandatory attribute of which was a round loaf, gathered around a large table, not only all their relatives, but friends and neighbors. This feast symbolized the universal forgiveness and reconciliation: that day to make new friends and put up with the old.
On the evening of youth gatherings rapidly preparing for the yuletide: sewed masks, costumes, rehearsed Christmas carols. Girls dream of marrying, Nikola wondered, wanting to know who will be their restrictions. Also conducted rituals to attract good luck and prosperity.
St. Nicholas holiday symbolizes the belief in miracles, in the execution of cherished desires. What can you give on this day a child? Wanting to please baby, remember the good start of the holiday. It should not be toys related to military subjects. Suitable educational board games, puzzles, sets for children's creativity, books. For those who are older, will be interested in gadgets, for example, a useful device, as e-book. At the young travelers will impress an interactive map of the world. Good mood will give skiing, skating, snowboarding.
Let this bright and affectionate celebration will fill your home comfort and warmth, and will become your new family tradition
