Chapter Nine

The First Christmas Trees

The celebration of Christmas continued to grow richer with wonderful customs. Remembering how gypsy children long ago had decorated an evergreen tree with simple tokens in the forest, Nicholas decided to bring that magic directly into the homes of the villagers.

He selected small fir trees, planted them securely in wooden tubs, and adorned their fragrant green boughs with bright fruit, handmade candles, and small gifts.

When the children awoke to see glowing lights and glistening ornaments arranged on a living tree right inside their parlor, their faces lit up with pure wonder, creating yet another timeless holiday tradition.