We all know that Santa Claus lives in the North Pole, but did you ever wonder where St. Nick lives? Well, we have our very own St. Nick living right here! His name, when he is not St. Nick, is Bob. Bob starts to allow his beard to grow longer a few months before December. He began his career at the annual Employee Children’s Christmas Party at St. Joseph’s Home. He now plays the part of St. Nick at various local schools and churches.
On Friday December 5th, the eve before St. Nicholas Day, the children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews came for a great party. As the children arrived, they were thrilled to look at our snow village and watch the Christmas train weave through the village to the station. Many wide-eyed, toothless grins gazed up at the the decorated tree and they giggled in anticipation of St. Nick’s appearance on his arched throne.
The evening’s festivities started with the children’s favorite meal of hot dogs, chicken nuggets, and macaroni and cheese. While everyone was enjoying their meal, a mini-flash mob began. Suddenly the music swelled and Pauline from the Activity Department walked to the center and started to sing. After several bars of music, Cindy, also from Activities, stood up from her seat and joined her singing. Sister Judith, who was walking around greeting everyone, then joined in with her part, which was different from the others. They sang Christmas Canon Rock from the Transiberian Orchestra. Once the song was finished, the three singers absorbed themselves into the crowd.
Following the song, the children listened to the story of the Birth of Jesus in English and Spanish. Four-year-old girl, Lucy, played the part of Mary, and seven-year-old, Diego, played Joseph. Lucy was able to keep baby Jesus very quiet!
Before they knew it, the bells were ringing and we all, young and old, sang “Jolly Old St. Nicholas” to greet St. Nick! Gifts were distributed, pictures were taken, and happy faces filled the auditorium. St. Nick finished, and all waved “Good-bye” until next year.
Jolly Old Saint Nick lives at St. Joseph’s Home