Friday, December 06, 2013

Friday Freakout

A festive freakout...



December 6th marks the feast day of Saint Nicholas of Myra, the real Santa Claus:

The true story of Santa Claus begins with Nicholas, who was born during the third century in the village of Patara. At the time the area was Greek and is now on the southern coast of Turkey. His wealthy parents, who raised him to be a devout Christian, died in an epidemic while Nicholas was still young. Obeying Jesus' words to "sell what you own and give the money to the poor," Nicholas used his whole inheritance to assist the needy, the sick, and the suffering. He dedicated his life to serving God and was made Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known throughout the land for his generosity to those in need, his love for children, and his concern for sailors and ships.

(More here, including cookie recipes)


He is the patron saint, among many things, of bakers, children, Russia, Russian children, sailors, spice merchants, toy makers and various places in Europe.


NORAD tracks Santa.


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