Last night, December 5, was Sinterklaas Eve, so we once again pulled out a favorite Christmas tradition-- reading the true story of St. Nicholas (Sinterklaas in Dutch) and then leaving him and his white horse treats in our klompies in hope that he'd exchange them for some little gifts. We started this tradition as a Santa alternative and opportunity to teach the girls a little something about their history and heritage. Each year we get something a little different out of it. This year I realized how great it is to give some small gifts early in the season. As soon as the tree went up, the kids got present-hungry and started asking if they could "pleeeeease just open one present?" Sinterklaas holds them over until Christmas...like a little snack. :)
One consistent thing we've always appreciated about this tradition is the laughs it brings us. This year was no exception. Delia got over her funny fears, but Ella was concerned about giving Sinterklaas a head's up regarding a small problem we've been dealing with. This was what her note said: "WARNING Sinterklaas! Please do not go in the bathroom! We have sprayed poison in it. Because we have a problem with ants."
You'll be happy to hear that we didn't kill Sinterklaas with ant poison fumes this year. He came indeed and he left a small pile of treats.
Ella nearly cried with joy when she opened this little silver piano charm necklace. This gift was also a huge hit that we recommend to anyone whose kids also need to keep track of their reading minutes.
And Delia's favorite gift from Sinterklaas was her very own sparkly Cubbie hat!
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