.: In Celebration Of Saint Nicholas Day! :.

.:There is still time to craft for The Wellness Tree please see my post to become involved here:.

.: The first snowfall of this Winter season brought with it magic into our celebration :.

On this new morning we are happily greeted by a thick blanket of freshly fallen snow.  The morning sun appears to reveal snow sparkling like diamonds scattered all around.  I linger a moment more at the window to watch the falling snow and delight in its gentle descent, listening to the quiet crackle of the fire that is warming us on this cozy new morning.

.: Chocolate golden coins, pomegranates, ornaments and wrapped chocolate orange peels :.

The embers in the wood stove are still glowing. We add a few logs and are warmed as the flames move  in harmony with the lit Beeswax candles that are also joining us in warmth on this morning. 

We take in the sweet scent of citrus from the orange slice ornaments we hung on the tree. The twinkling lights that spiral around the tree set the tone for my children's happy cheers of "Saint Nicholas was here" "Saint Nicholas was here" as they grasp each pretty paper package wondering just what may be waiting inside...  

.: It warmed my heart to see special gifts sitting in the children's decorative wooden shoes :.

.: Three pairs of wooden shoes found at the antique barn near my home. Notice the delicate carving marks left in the wood from whoever made each pair :.

As they begin to unwrap each gift, beautiful ribbons of gingham swirl along the floor in front of me. Carefully creased  brown paper is now torn away to unveil each new simple gift.

.: A few extra gifts were added into our day--a beautiful tree branch pencil holder, knit gnome, wool ball kit, and natural tree blocks in a hand knit bag purchased here. :.

The St Nicholas stories we have read over the past few days lend meaning to the gifts received today.  Oranges represent the sweetness of our spirits, golden coins represent giving to others.  A new ornament in memory of this year's celebration sits in each child's shoe. 

A large pine cone is carefully placed to roll into peanut butter and seed later for the birds. 

.:Orange slice ornaments and beeswax ornaments hang low on the branches for Saint Nicholas to see! :.

 

.:Orange slices candied and dipped in chocolate, my two favorite combinations :.

I enjoy savoring every element of this season. All of the preparations are as meaningful as the celebration itself.  I am thankful for this time of family togetherness and seeing my children's faces light up with magic while we remain mindful of how each tradition and celebration is meaningful to our family.

.: May this season bring you peace, family togetherness, and joy! :.