Happy Saint Nicholas Day ! ! ! 

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A Brief History:
Origination: St. Nicholas is recognized for relinquishing all his belongings and donating his wealth to those in need. Brought up in a devout Christian environment, St. Nicholas devoted his entire life to aiding the ill and the afflicted. The legendary tales surrounding St. Nicholas eventually contributed to the creation of the contemporary figure of Santa Claus. For instance, in the third century, a daughter’s prospects for marriage improved significantly when her father provided a substantial dowry to potential suitors. One particular story recounts the plight of a destitute father with three daughters who lacked the means to offer any dowry.

Saint-Nick-A2L1609669-Lighted-Wall-Clock courtesy of Openverse

More Traditional Evolution: Historically, families would place their shoes near the fires at night to allow them to dry. On three distinct occasions, Ol’ St. Nicholas is said to have provided a dowry for each daughter. According to legend, he miraculously made gold appear in their shoes as they dried by the fire. Although St. Nicholas Day should not be conflated with Christmas, there are some shared customs. These include the practice of leaving gifts in shoes (or stockings) and the exchange of small presents. Another custom involves leaving treats for well-behaved children, while those who misbehave may find a twig or a piece of coal instead.

A Patron to Manna: He serves as the patron saint for numerous causes, including sailors, travelers, clergy, schoolchildren, and even thieves, among others. His birthplace is the village of Patar, situated on the southeastern coast of present-day Turkey. He was interred in a tomb in Myra, where water thought to possess healing properties emerged from his grave, referred to as the Manna of Saint Nicholas.

St. Nick to Santa: St. Nicholas is the figure who served as the inspiration for Santa Claus. On the evening of December 5th, it is customary for individuals to place their shoes outside, anticipating the discovery of chocolate coins or an orange the following morning. The celebration of St. Nick’s Day was introduced to the United States by German immigrants during the 1600s. Cincinnati is known for its extensive observance of St. Nick’s Day, a tradition that can be attributed to the city’s German roots. In 2017, researchers verified that a fragment of hip bone found in a church in the United States was a relic dating back to the 4th century, associated with Saint Nicholas. The saint’s relics are housed in the 11th-century basilica of San Nicola located in Bari, Italy.

Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead dressed as Santa Claus a.k.a. Jolly Ol’ St. Nick a.k.a. Father Christmas courtesy of Openverse

Celebrated: The date of December 6th is recognized as The Feast of St. Nicholas, a celebration that is widely observed across Europe to commemorate the anniversary of St. Nick’s death.

A Few Facts:
I am sharing a few facts, and more, some trivia, some not trivial. . .

Moderate Traditions Observed: Integrate various traditions associated with Saint Nicholas Day into your holiday celebrations:

• Placing a gift or a delightful surprise inside someone’s shoe.
• A gesture that does not need to be extravagant.
• Leave a heartfelt note or a small, wrapped chocolate treat.
• Place a coin or a decorative ornament intended for the Christmas tree.
• Tucking a stress-relief ball or a fresh pair of socks into the shoes of a cherished individual.
  
• Placing an air freshener or a small bath bomb can serve as enjoyable surprises to conceal within a pair of shoes.
• More. . .

Photo by HGDesigns courtesy of Pixabay

The Present:
We are set on getting ready for our holidays that are upcoming, holiday shopping, and remembering ol’ St. Nick!

The Future:
St. Nicholas will always be an important celebration! Let’s give and receive thanks with the holiday this great year and in the years to come. . .

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Christmas in Kuwait courtesy of Openverse

Saint Nicholas Day