Happy St. Nicholas Day

1. Saint Nicholas;, also called Nikolaos of Myra, was a historic 4th-century Christian saint and Greek Bishop of Myra in Lycia. Because of the many miracles attributed to his intercession, he is also known as Nikolaos the Wonderworker. Wikipedia

Today is the Feast day of St. Nicholas who died on this date in 343 AD. St. Nicholas was known for helping the needy and upon his death the legend of his gift giving grew developing into the St. Nicholas now known as Santa Claus, Pere Noel, Kris Kringle, Julemanden, Papa Noel among others.  He is celebrated in every language and every culture.  He is part of our Christian heritage and remains with us, as do all our Saints who pass before us, to this day. 

So the next time someone says there is no Santa Claus you are now armed with the facts to prove them wrong!!

We are celebrating by going over to Amy and Doug's for dinner tonight.  I have small gifts to give in honor of the day.  In parts of Europe, it is traditional to place candy in your loved ones shoes on St. Nicholas day.  Do you celebrate St. Nicholas day in your family?  What traditions do you have for this day?