A Favorite Christmas Decoration
I don’t recall when Tumta joined us – a gift from my parents – but it was several decades ago when the kids were quite young, and rather delighted with this family pull-toy decoration (and a tradition they have carried on, thanks to us).
My Mom’s side of the family is Swedish and there are stories and legends about the mythological, and somewhat mischievous, creatures called Tomten (or Tomte) who, among other things, are known for protecting and watching over the farm and buildings, and those who live there. They tend to be associated with the Winter Soltice, and of course Christmas.
In Scandinavian folklore they are called Nisse in Norway and Denmark, and Tontuu in Finland.
We’ve called him Tumta (our variation of the name) since he joined the household years ago, and he is typically the first decoration that appears, often around Thanksgiving. He often is hung from the fireplace mantle so he’s easily seen, but more recently has been hanging around our kitchen in our window.
Our 2 daughters always ask if Tumta has appeared, and they now have their own – sadly, we were not able to find pull-toys for them like ours, despite looking in Scandinavian shops we’ve found and online.
It’s just wouldn’t be Christmas without Tumta watching over us!!
This is an entry for the Holiday Fun and Cheer December Challenge, hosted by Carol Williams and Anna Banana Kruchten CRS CRB, Phoenix Broker.
