St. Nikolaus Day, or Eve, is celebrated on December 6. This is the favorite holiday of all children - it's a gift-giving day. When evening comes, St. Nikolaus, a reverend gray-haired figure with flowing beard, wearing gorgeous bishop's garments, gold embroidered cope, mitre and pastoral staff, knocks on doors and enquires about the behavior of the children. The custom of examining the children, where they will cite a verse, sing, or otherwise show their skills, is still widespread in German-speaking countries. Each little one gets a gift for his performance.
So...tonight, Erin put her slipper outside her door in hopes that St. Nikolaus will visit our house! I took the liberty of taking some pictures for your viewing pleasure. Naturally, this is a special treat for Erin because the gift-giving happens twice in one month.
Last week one of our German neighbors, Marion, gave Erin an advent calendar. Inside each box of the calendar is a special treat picked especially by Marion for Erin. Because these two are close (Erin and Libby spend spring, summer and fall evenings at Marion's house), each gift is perfect and fits Erin's personality. Well...this morning, Erin realized that this will be our last Christmas in Germany. She became quite sad as this truly is home for her - she doesn't remember living in the U.S. So, while this is an exciting time for Erin, she is also sad because she knows we will be moving next year:-(
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