St. Nicholas

Probably the most popular of Thomas Nast’s drawings of Santa Claus, “

Merry Old Santa Claus,” Harper’s Weekly, January 1, 1881. 

From The Ohio State University Library’s Thomas Nast Portfolio.

Tonight we had an Enrichment Meeting in our ward that centered around the 

myths, legends, facts and evolution of Santa Claus.

It was such a lovely evening with really yummy food

the most delicious cupcake I have had in awhile made with a Santa face.

It was lovely being with the women in my ward and visiting.

Our Enrichment leader had her brother come speak to us about St Nicholas.

He has researched an studying all facts containing to Santa his entire lifetime. 

 It is fun when you can tell someone is passionate about something.

It was really fascinating and inspiring.

I loved learning about St Nicholas who was born in the 3rd century

and all of his great works and his life.

And how he evolved through the centuries to what we know now.

Coca-Cola has a lot to do with that and bored housewives.

I could wax poetic about what I learned tonight but I don't want to bore you

You really should look into it if you feel so inclined.

It really got me thinking about this season and the feelings it evokes.

Not all those feelings are warm and fuzzy either.

Santa can really help you get into the spirit of the season 

and the real reason we celebrate this joyous holiday.

The real St Nic whole life revolved around Christ 

and doing good works in his name.  

If we take what Nicholas was really about and try to take the commercialism out of the holiday.

I think that it would be easier to focus on the real reason we celebrate Christmas. 

I find it easier to focus on Christ this year because of my young children.

They remind what it really is about.

Noah gets more excited to find the baby Jesus and talks about being good and kind.

I am just so grateful to have my two sweet kids in my life.

It makes this season so much more magical and reminds me what is really important.