Pic Today 12/22/11

LEAVING SOMETHING

FOR SANTA

The tradition of leaving milk and cookies

for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve night

is believed to have emerged around the

time of the Great Depression

when parents wanted to inspire their children

to share with others, especially in hard times.

Finding crumbs on the plate the next morning

was proof that Jolly St. Nick had visited.

In England, sherry and mince pie are used.

And in Germany,

carrots are left out for the reindeer.

There's a Dutch custom to fill wooden shoes

with hay for Santa's horses.

Whatever your custom,

make sure you leave something nice for Santa.

(Chances are it will be gone Christmas morning.)

Ho Ho Ho!