St. Nicholas Day and Related Adventures

Even though Santa doesn't come here on Christmas eve, St. Nicholas visits the Howen home on December 6th each year. We don't avoid Santa Claus movies or books, but we do talk about who St. Nicholas was and what he (apparently--according to legend) did for others and how when he did this he was trying model Jesus. They know the gifts in their stockings are from us, yet the magical part of the surprise is still there. (They also know not to be bold in talking about this with others so as not to "ruin" the element of surprise for them. After all their mommy believed in Santa Claus until she was at least 6th grade!)

The kiddos wait in our bed until we get out the camera.
B's eyes are closed but I just love this picture of him.

McCance, Bradford and Cora in front of their beautiful stockings made with love
by my dear friend and French teacher, Mme. Strope.

The boys delve into their stockings.

And. . .here it is. . . the prize gift--a gingerbread house kit.

The house is together.

Now for the fun part.

Most of the way finished.

Ta-dah!