We celebrated beautiful St. Lucia Day!
In Scandinavia, this day marks the beginning of the Christmas season, and
symbolizes hope and light during the darkest time of the year.
Usually, families observe St. Lucia's Day in their homes
by having one of their daughters
dress in white and serve hot chocolate and baked goods
to other members of the family.
(Traditionally, it's the oldest girl, but we go from oldest to youngest).
This year, Lottie was our St. Lucia.
Our feast included:
smoked salmon, pickled onions, and
cucumbers on cream cheese bagels,
cheeses, buttered dill potatoes,
with tangerine-infused sparkling juice.
After dinner, Jane and Lottie disappeared into my bedroom
where she began transforming Lottie into St. Lucia.
In our family, whoever was
St. Lucia the year before helps prepare the new Lucia,
so Jane did her make-up with gold glitter sparkles, painted her nails,
and curled her hair.
She looked adorable!
She put on her white nightgown with a red sash, her iconic candle crown,
and a red cape with glittered holly. She looked perfect.
She knocked on our door and was greeted by the boys, who had an
impromptu gift for Lucia (and the girls).
They sang In the Bleak Midwinter which is a beautiful
song to sing during this dark winter celebration.
It reminded me of a song that the dwarves from The Lord of the Rings
would sing before battle.
After we sat down while Lucia passed out her
baked goods, and I served hot chocolate.
This year, in addition to chocolate croissants, she really wanted
to pass out Turkish Delight, which was a surprisingly delish treat!
Lottie had chosen three homes she wanted to visit in our neighborhood
to share her treats. So we all got in the car and delivered our goods
to loved ones (her friends and their families).
I love this holiday!
* * * * * * * *
St. Lucia Day 2019 with Claire
St. Lucia Day 2020 with Jane
St. Lucia Day 221 with Charlotte
