Greetings, dear reader!
As promised, I am here to regale you with stories of the gnome, or, as they are called in Sweden, "Tomte". Joy, of Scrap for Joy fame has a Swedish husband, who brought with his heritage the legend of the Tomte. I have asked her to share it with me so that I might share it with YOU!
Now, everyone of you, go and grab a cup of Earl Grey Tea and/or a cup of peppermint hot cocoa...I'll wait.
Are you back? Okay, settle in to your oversized reading chair, grab your most comfy winter quilt, and relax while I share the story of the Tomte (or Tomten: plural).
In Sweden, every home has a Tomte. You can't see them but they are there. They are the guardians of the home and watch out over pets and farm animals. They watch over everything at night when you are asleep. They are very loyal and if you treat them with respect they will not play tricks on you. Often before Christmas, parents will tell their children that the Tomtes are watching to see if you're good or bad and report this to Santa.
Another blog Abundant Blessings, has created this little Swedish Tomte family. (Obviously these are the hard working variety)
Do go check out her blog and this blogpost about the Swedish Tomte.
Here are some little guys herding sheep from Etsy Artisan "StuckOnArt":
These little, hard working Tomten (not to be confused with their mischievous cousins the Troll) are only 5 1/2 inches tall. I guess it takes all 7 of them to herd the much larger sheep!
Now, wasn't that a nice way to enjoy your hot drink? What stories about gnomes are part of YOUR heritage?
More soon!
Hot buttered rum kisses,
Paula Clare
