And Don't Forget, Girls, Tonight Is St. Nicholas Night!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                            This concept and illustration came from a book I had as a child and still own, called "Tales Told In Holland."  The American Santa Claus originated in European traditions of St. Nicholas, which varied in different countries.

                              In Holland, as depicted, he rode about on his white horse, dispensing gifts to good children, accompanied by Black Pete, his Moor assistant, who carries a stick to beat and a bag to carry of bad boys and girls!  Look out for Black Pete and his switch, darlings!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                Elsewhere, St. Nicholas is accompanied by Krampus, often depicted as the Grim Reaper, or a great, hairy beast. In some parts or Europe this is Krampus Day, where folk dress up like Krampus and parade about, getting drunk, I am sure.  Not unlike our American Santacon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

                                So, dolls, before thinking Christmas is a uniquely American thing, realize if it was not for Europe there would be no holiday celebrations like those now.

                                  A Happy St. Nicholas and Krampus Day to everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!