I have read so
many blog posts recently that dealt with holiday traditions, stories and photos,
that I felt inspired to get into the spirit myself. After all, I finally did
some holiday baking myself, and hubby is outside hanging lights. We may even
put the tree up. Did I mention that we procrastinate? Never mind. He has
promised to sing carols to me, so all is forgiven.
When chasing
an interesting story’s origin, I ran across this wonderful Christmas traditions
and cultural norms page: http://www.whychristmas.com/cultures/usa.shtml
and of course I had to read the USA page. I found out a lot of things about
cultural traditions in my own country that I found interesting, not the least
of which was my husband's excited comment that finally he would be able to find some delicious and inexpensive Christmas Tamales, is actually a tradition here in the southwest. But most amusing and intriguing to me was the Christmas Pickle! Here's the story:
As with
Hallmark, it seems the truth of this tradition may have originated in commerce,
but it’s still fun to think of having one on my tree. I wish I’d known of this while
my kids were young, but I may have to get one, just for fun! The “legend” is
that it originated in Germany and it was a pickle ornament hidden on the tree,
way back in the branches so it wasn’t easy to see, and whoever found it first got
an extra present from St. Nicolas. More fun than finding Easter eggs!
Here’s the
poem:
The Christmas
Pickle
To start a
tradition that will surely last,
Here's the
story about the pickle of glass.
The night
before Christmas, it's hung on the tree
While
everyone's sleeping, it's done secretly.
And on
Christmas morning, when you arise,
The first
one to find it will get a surprise!
A family
tradition for all to share,
You'll look
for the pickle year after year.
And of course you must hear the Christmas Pickle Carol!
7 comments:
I always wondered about the mysterious pickle on the tree, and now I know! Fun post!
Thank, CJ. I am seriously getting one this year!
That is such a cute story. My grandkiddies love pickles (the real ones). This sounds like a great new tradition. Thanks for sharing, Elizabeth.
Thanks, Diane! I agree that this IS a great idea for grandkids! If I had some, I would certainly start with tradition with them, for sure!
What a fun post! I received a pickle from a friend years ago and am reminded of the tradition. I may have to hide it this year for when the family gathers. Have a happy holiday, all!!
I love Christmas traditions! And I've been wondering why I kept seeing pickle ornaments, lol, so thanks for answering that question.
What a sweet, cute post!
I heard of the Christmas Pickle but really didn't know the tradition. Thanks for sharing the info.
Good luck and God's blessings
PamT
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