Gnome May Bring Gifts To Your Garden
By Phran Novelli
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - In Sweden, a magical little figure known as Tomten is said to take care of farms and keep all the critters and children safe. A small gnome in a tall red cap, the Tomten comes at night when everyone is sleeping, and on Christmas Eve, even brings goodies (not so unlike another fellow from way up north sporting a scarlet hat and passing out presents on this night).
To thank the Tomten for looking after things all year, people in Sweden put out porridge on Christmas Eve, sort of like our cookies for Santa.
I think a helpful little gnome is a sweet tradition (even if you don't want a plastic replica of one standing in your yard). I could use a guardian in the garden.
So, I think I'll put out a bowl of oatmeal for the Tomten tonight. Besides checking that the bunnies are snug, the birds are safe in their nests, and the chipmunks aren't wanting for nuts, maybe the Tomten would like to do some weeding while I sleep throughout the year? That would be a fabulous Christmas present.
