The Truth About Santa Claus
Did you know that Santa Claus does not come down the chimney? Nope. Not required. Doesn’t happen. Never a factor in my childhood. Perhaps a little explanation is in order. Both of my grandmothers were immigrants from Norway, and like most mothers, they controlled the culture in the family. That means I was raised Lutheran, love to eat a carb-heavy potato dumpling called “krub,” and know, without a doubt, that Santa Claus does not come down the chimney. Santa comes through the front door, and he isn’t even the most important person there. The key figure is the Julenisse, a Christmas elf. All Nisse are short and wear red caps. They are not attractive creatures but have magical powers and a wicked sense of humor. Every farm has its own Nisse, who takes special care over the animals. If you do not treat your livestock well the Nisse will not treat you well. Remember that when you make your Christmas list. On Christmas Eve the Julenisse knocks