For those of you who are aware of my proclivity for all things spooky, I know you did not expect the winter holidays to come and go without a greeting from the skeletons. This is their favorite Holiday outfit, especially because it confuses those who are expecting to see some jolly old elf clad in red. It’s a beautiful day here in Houston and these two are enjoying the fresh air and sunshine while laughing about the reactions they receive from those mere mortals that walk past.
Also, I have had great fun this traditional season of light by studying up on the monsters who are associated with the dark time of the year. As a writer, I am constantly researching new topics for my blog and other stories. This year I learned about Krampus. He is a delightful creature that shows up before the big guy in red and takes care of all the bad little children. Sounds fun!
What I have gathered in my brief studies of monsters is that there are a select few, Krampus being one, that show up just in time for the end of the year when many people celebrate Christmas. The sole purpose of these critters is to scare children into behaving themselves. These creatures almost always are from the northern climates where December is a dark and cold month. People have to stay inside for warmth and survival. The children get bored staying inside so much and begin to get rowdy. One way to make sure the delightful little ones stay quiet is to create monsters to scare them into behaving. When I study Krampus, I see that he will find all of the naughty children and either eats them or sends them into the underworld. In addition to their being banished for ever from the earth plane, it also means means they don’t get any presents or treats! Oh no!
Fast forward a couple of hundred years and what we have now is Santa Claus who will put misbehaving cherubs on a “Naughty List”. Today’s children don’t have to worry about being eaten or thrown into the underworld or anything fun and scary.
I find it very interesting that so many cultures, religions and societies have references to lights this time of year. However, monsters like Krampus come from the cold northern regions of the world. I am still researching this topic, but I have not found any monsters (yet) that steal away the children of tropical climates. Do you know of any? I’ll keep you posted on my research. Then we’ll see what shows up in my writings by next year. Apparently Krampus is making a comeback and taking part in parades. Be on the lookout!
My niece, Becca, sent me this wonderful pillow that pretty much sums up my life. I believe she got it in Salem, Ma. Is it possible that spookiness runs in my family? Can you find it in my DNA? Please don’t tell my sister!
Anyway, I hope that you enjoy your holidays whatever you celebrate. I will stay inside with my skeletons sharing scary stories and drinking hot chocolate.
Until next time.….