Christmas 2025 Alamodoso Magazine web ready

The Magazine of the Tularosa Basin & Sacramento Mountains

Cover photo courtesy of Maupins Home Furniture

See ad on page 20

Tackle Gift Wrapping

Poet: Catherine Pulsifer

In the workshop of yuletide cheer, I tackled gift wrapping with festive fear.

Ribbons rebelled, in knots, they conspired,Atangle of chaos, as if inspired.

The tape vanished like a holiday ghost, I swear it hides, playing merry host.

Boxes revolted, corners askew, My gifts looked like a present zoo.

Bows became mischievous, dancing around, I battled with paper, it covered the ground.

Merrily struggling, laughter in the air,Agift-wrapping saga, beyond compare.

So here's to the tape, the ribbons so sly,Acomical Christmas, I can't deny.

Despite the chaos and the gift-wrap ballet, May your presents bring joy on the holiday!

Weird Christmas Traditions

Forget the Christmas turkey. For many Japanese, traditional Christmas dinner is Kentucky Fried Chicken.

Due to a combination of tiny Japanese ovens and a clever marketing campaign convincing locals that fried chicken is a traditionalAmerican Yuletide feast, reservations have to be made to eat at a KFC on Christmas Day.

During the run-up to Christmas, Colonel Sanders statues outside KFC’s Japanese outlets wear Santa gear. The chicken is served in special holiday packaging.

Hide your broom

Norwegians believe that Christmas Eve coincides with the arrival of evil spirits and witches. It is only logical then, that Norwegian householders

hide all their brooms before they go to sleep.

After all, nothing spoils Christmas quicker than finding your broom in broken pieces at the foot of a tree, trashed by some joy-riding witch.

Facing your Christmas demons

InAustria, St Nicholas has an evil counterpart called Krampus. He is the bad cop to St Nick’s good cop, a demon-like creature with one task: to punish bad children before Christmas.

People dressed in devil costumes roam the streets, carrying chains and a basket for abducting especially bad children and hauling them to hell.

DONA ANA COUNTY

For some, Christmas traditions entail sipping eggnog, wrapping presents, and hanging stockings above a roaring

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fireplace, or in the Drummond’s case wearing matching Christmas pajamas and making cinnamon rolls. For others, holiday traditions look more like a little red doll with a pointed hat perched on the mantle, otherwise known as: Elf on the Shelf.

The Elf on the Shelf is a decades-long Christmas tradition that involves a special Scout Elf who is assigned to report back to Santa on the rights (and wrongs) of the children of his assigned house before the big holiday. The premise of this adorable holiday game is that each morning, the Elf takes on a new position around the house, which the kids scurry about in search of. The kiddos can even customize

their Elf with a fun name, outfits, and accessories to add a layer of creativity to the holiday tradition.

Like any good game, this one has a set of rules that the kids must follow to ensure the Elf doesn’t lose his magic. If you’re unfamiliar with these rules, that’s not to worry, because we’ve compiled a list of the most important ones to ensure a smooth season with your family’s beloved Elf.

Your Elf should arrive during Scout Elf Return Week.

According to the official Elf on the Shelf website, Scout Elf Return Week usually falls between the end of November, when it's still Turkey time, and the beginning of December, when it's time to pull out all your Christmas decorations. In 2023, Scout Elf Return Week was from November 22 to December 1. But if your Elf happens to be late, don’t fret.

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Santa occasionally holds a few Elves back to help him with lastminute Christmas-related tasks at the North Pole before releasing them to their respective houses. Don’t touch your Elf!

Let your family’s Elf be a lesson in “you can look, but not touch,” for the kiddos. This is the most important rule because touching the Elf leads to him losing his magic. If an Elf loses his magic, he’ll be unable to fly back to the North Pole to inform Santa of what’s been going on at home, which no one wants. If a gust of wintry wind, or perhaps Fido, knocks the Elf over, a parent can help put Santa’s little helper back in its place.

But again, kids must not touch the Elf! We know mistakes happen, though, so if an Elf is accidentally touched, there are ways to restore his magic. Performing a Christmas carol, sprinkling cinnamon on the Elf,

or writing a letter to Santa are all ways that the kids can help restore the Elf’s magic (and keep them occupied while you’re busy making Christmas cookies).

Scout Elves can’t talk, but they sure can listen!

Children should be encouraged to confide in their Elf, whether that’s about their Christmas wish list, secrets, or what they did this year to be on the nice (or naughty) list.After all, your Elf makes the commute all the way to the North Pole each night to report on the kids to Santa, so it’s only fair to give him something to talk about!

Your Elf changes position every night.

It’s important to note that your Elf only moves when he isn’t being watched, so evading bedtime to catch the Elf in its act won’t do anything for the kids (other than putting them on the naughty list!)After a long night of

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“My feet felt like they were on fire,”

- Frankie M. of Mesilla

the testimonial of another patient and say to themselves 'Hey, I feel the same thing'."

Frankie M. of Mesilla testified to this. "I remember my husband driving me to my consultation and I saw a woman running just outside our neighborhood. I was so envious - I just kept thinking 'I would give anything just to walk again'. My primary care doctor told me my troubles with pain and balance were just symptoms of old age and gave me a prescription. I was so depressed."

Fortunately Frankie would eventually see Dr. Quintanilla on the local news talking about similar symptoms and how she offers a real solution at Sonoma Acupuncture. "I just knew I had to see her. She was my last hope."

“Almost all of our patients come to us with a story similar to Frankie's. They've been told there's no hope. They've been told 'it's just part of getting older'." shares Marisol, a Patient Care Technician at Sonoma. "It just breaks my heart but I know how much we can help people like Frankie so I'm always so happy when they walk through our door."

expired, leaving those suffering with crippling balance issues. "In this case, the absence of pain is not necessarily a good thing," shares Dr. Quintanilla. "This usually indicates that your nerves are hanging on by a fragile thread."

So how exactly is Dr. Quintanilla able to reverse the effects of this degenerative disease?

"Acupuncture has been used to increase blood flow for thousands of years which helps to get the necessary nutrients to the affected nerves. But the real magic happens when I integrate ATP Resonance BioTherapy. This is tech that was originally developed by NASA to expedite recovering and healing."

I just can't say enough about Sonoma Acupuncture," Frankie shared, through tears of joy. "My husband and I moved here 3 years ago and he's gone out for a walk almost every day. I always stayed home because of the pain and discomfort. Yesterday I walked with him! And next week we're starting dancing lessons! I am truly living life these days."

important than those test results is the joy she's expressed being amazing things she's able to do

ancient science of acupuncture

starts each patient with an initial

proper diagnosis but it helps to damage has occurred" tells the doctor. "This is important because if a patient has suffered more that 95% damage, there is little that I can do to help them. I'm familiar with the medical miracle but I know my limits as a practitioner and the limits of my medicine."

When it comes to treating peripheral neuropathy, regardless of its origin, early detection greatly improves your chances of a full recovery.

If you or someone you love is suffering with chronic pain that presents as burning, tingling, or 'pins and needles' or you've recently been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, it's important to know that there are options. There is hope.

Visit our Las Cruces clinic. it’s worth the drive! Call (575) 618-6900 to schedule an initial consultation or visit sonoma-acupuncture.com to read more incredible success stories.

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reporting back to the Big Claus in the North Pole while the kids are sound asleep, your Elf makes its way to a new location around the house. Sometimes it's somewhere predictable, like the fireplace mantle, while other times it's somewhere more unexpected, like behind your stack of cookbooks. Either way, the kids will love searching the house every morning to see where the Elf is.

Elves must return to the North Pole nightly.

Each evening, between the first day the Elf makes its way onto your shelf and Christmas Eve, marks another journey that he takes from your home to the snowy North Pole. This is why the Elf takes on a new location around the house everyday. It’s simply his resting place after a long night of reporting to Santa. Again, this is a great opportunity

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for the kids to try their hand at penning a letter to Santa entailing their Christmas hopes, wishes, and dreams so the Elf can take it back to him at night.

Your Elf should leave on Christmas Eve.

Although the famous poem “AVisit from St. Nicholas” states that on the night before Christmas, “not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse,” your Elf is here to prove that statement wrong. On December 24, your Elf will make his final journey back to the North Pole to help Santa prepare for Christmas Day!

After all, St. Nick needs all the help he can get to bring presents and Christmas cheer to everyone on the nice list. This is a great opportunity to teach the kiddos that if you love someone, you should let them go.And if it’s meant to be, then your Elf will be back on that shelf in a year’s time!

The "true meaning of Christmas" is a phrase that began to appear in the mid19th century when a shift toward a more secular culture resulted in a national backlash in the United States.

Christians began to see the secularization of the celebration day of the birth of Christ as the shift toward Santa Claus and gift exchanging replaced the celebration of the advent of Christ and giving to the poor and needy without expectation of receiving anything in return.

The poemAVisit from St. Nicholas (1822) helped popularize the tradition of exchanging gifts, and seasonal Christmas shopping began to assume economic importance.

Harriet Beecher Stowe criticizes the commercialization in her story "Christmas; or, the Story continues page 86

How much would the gifts from the 12 Days of Christmas cost in 2023? The PNC Christmas Price Index is back with some cheer — or, perhaps, a bit of a grim reminder of inflation.

It’s a whopping $47,000 to get all the gifts listed in the classic holiday song. That’s a hefty increase over last year’s $46,319. But at least it’s not as bad as the overall consumer index, which is up by 3.2% in the last 12 months.

Now, let’s talk about these gifts. Some went up more than others. The most volatile gift this year is the Two Turtle Doves, which cost $750. That’s quite a leap from last

year’s price of $600. They’re pretty special, you see, and apparently quite rare. True Loves wishing to give gifts based on the song, may want to cut down to one turtle dove this year.

The first gift, the Partridge in a Pear Tree, also saw a significant increase. It’s now $1,394, up from last year’s price of $1,265.

But the most expensive gifts this year are the Ten Lords-a-Leaping and the Seven Swans-a-Swimming. They’re the most expensive gifts in the index, and the Lords have managed to stay on top for another year. In case you were wondering, 10 leaping lords would run you about $14,539, and the swans cost about $13,125.

In 2024, purchasing all the gifts mentioned in the "Twelve Days of Christmas" song will cost approximately $49,263, reflecting a 5.4% increase over 2023 prices. If you were to buy every gift repeatedly as the song suggests (totaling 364 items), the cost soars to over $209,000.

How To Make Candy Apples

INGREDIENTS

Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure for the candy coating, so it sets into a hard, glossy shell.

Light Corn Syrup: Prevents crystallization of the sugar, ensuring a smooth and shiny candy coating that adheres well to the apples.

Red Food Coloring: Because candy apples were invented using red hot candies, their coating is often flavored with cinnamon. More recently, it’s become popular to simply use a little red food coloring, and that's what I've done here.

Granny SmithApples:Their tart flavor offers a welcome contrast to the sweetness of the candy coating, and their firm texture helps them stand up to the hot sugar-syrup bath. Other good options include Pink Lady, Rome, or Fuji apples.

Directions

Step 1

Grease a baking sheet with cooking spray. Line with parchment; grease parchment with cooking spray.

Step 2

Insert a wooden stick into top of each apple, pushing about halfway through.

Step 3

In a medium heavy pot over medium-high heat, bring sugar, corn syrup, food coloring, and 3/4 c. water to a boil. Continue to boil until candy thermometer registers between 300° and 310°, 15 to 20 minutes. Immediately remove from heat.

Step 4

Wait until bubbles mostly subside (30 seconds to 1 minutes). Working quickly and carefully—coating will be extremely hot—coat apples in candy mixture. Transfer to prepared sheet.

Step 5

Let cool completely before serving.

Candied apples will last about 3 days in the refrigerator. You’d think they’d last longer (aren’t they just apples coated in sugar?) but the hole made by the wooden stick causes them to degrade faster, limiting their shelf life. Store them in an airtight container to keep the sugar coating as crisp as possible.

Christmas Tree Trivia and Facts

• Christmas trees have been sold commercially in the United States since about 1850.

• In 1979, the National Christmas Tree was not lighted except for the top ornament. This was done in honor of theAmerican hostages in Iran.

• Between 1887-1933 a fishing schooner called the Christmas Ship would tie up at the Clark Street bridge and sell spruce and pine trees from Michigan to Chicagoans.

• The much-disputed title for the tallest living Christmas tree likely goes to an allegedly 160-foot

Sitka Spruce in Ferndale, California.

• Franklin Pierce, the 14th president, is often credited with bringing the Christmas tree tradition to the White House in the early 1850s.

• In 1923, President Calvin Coolidge started the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony now held every year on the White House lawn.

• Since 1966, the National Christmas TreeAssociation has given a Christmas tree to the President and first family.

• Most Christmas trees are cut weeks before they get to a retail outlet.

• In 1912, what were likely the first major community Christmas trees in the United States were erected in Boston, New York City and Hartford, Conn.

• Christmas trees generally take six to eight years to mature.

• Christmas trees are grown in all 50 states including Hawaii andAlaska.

• Ninety-eight percent of all

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• natural Christmas trees are grown on farms.

• More than 1,000,000 acres of land have been planted with Christmas trees.

• On average, as many as 1,500 Christmas trees are planted per acre.

• You should never burn your Christmas tree in the fireplace. It can contribute to creosote buildup.

• Other types of trees such as cherry and hawthorns were used as Christmas trees in the past.

• Thomas Edison’s assistants came up with the idea of electric lights for Christmas trees.

• In 1963, the National Christmas Tree was not lit until December 22nd because of a national 30day period of mourning following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

• Teddy Roosevelt banned the Christmas tree from the White House, possibly for environmental reasons—but his young son snuck a tree into the house anyway.

THE WORST CHRISTMAS PRESENT!

PeopleAre Sharing TheWorst Christmas GiftsThey EverReceived, And Honestly, Coal InA StockingWould Have Been BetterThan Some OfThese

"My husband's stepmother gave me, a 36-year-old at the time, a kindergarten-size backpack and when I opened it she said, 'I actually bought that for ——- (a child) a few years

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ago and she hated it so I threw it in a closet and I saw it and thought you’d like it. None of us did, we all think it’s ugly.'"

"That same year they gave my three kids $15 worth of gifts (with the clearance stickers on them) while her biological granddaughter opened a $300 unicorn.Which they made sure we knew cost $300, and then they pointed out to everyone our clearance stickers and what great deals they were (they weren’t), and then they made my kids leave the room so the granddaughter could take pics alone with her unicorn. It was the last Christmas we visited them. LOL."

"Grandma got me a dollar store electric toothbrush.Y'all know that thing didn't even turn on."

"When I was 12, I bought myself a Kindle. Me and my sister

spent an entire summer working for our grandpa and stepdad to save up for them, each of us spending about $200. My mom got all three of my brothers a Kindle for Christmas and I got some clothes from Old Navy. I was livid and when I talked to my mom about it she told me that my sister and I had been excluding our brothers from hanging out while we played video games and it was unfair. She never apologized or saw anything wrong with what she did, and I honestly still haven't forgiven her almost a decade later."

"When theTamagotchi craze was in full swing my siblings and I asked for one. My sisters both got one and I got a jacket because mine was torn up and small.When I asked my dad why I didn't get one and if Santa thought I did

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something bad that year. He told me I was too old for Santa and needed to learn life isn't fair. I was 8. My sisters were 7 and 5. From that point forward I only ever received clothing."

Eons ago I worked for a company owned by the richest man in Minnesota. One year, all of us peons (and there were a couple thousand of us) got a copy of his book; it was all about how he became the richest man in Minnesota.

When I was 10 years old my grandparents gave me an unwrapped suitcase for Christmas. In the interests of convenience, they used that suitcase for the wrapped presents for my sisters

AStarbucks gift card with a $0 balance and a gallon-size Ziploc bag of coffee straws.The straws are at least useful, the gift card was just mean.

"My dad — his first

Christmas divorced and living alone — did the first ever shopping for us clearly, lmao. My mom did all the shopping before. He got me a nose hair trimmer...I was 12.

"When I was 8 or 9, my grandma gave me a Christmas ornament. It was a little stuffed cherub with pink cheeks and yarn hair. I cried because I had saved up my allowance to buy it for her the year before."

"My deadbeat dad bought me, a 9-year-old girl, motel shampoo and an adult men's shirt he got for free.

"Every year my aunt gives our family 'Thrift Santa' gifts — like a bunch of gifts from thrift stores. The thing is, nothing relates to anything.The worst I’ve gotten are a Kama Sutra book when I was 13/14 (awkward), and a NewYork Yankees baby onesie. I don’t have kids, I don’t watch baseball."

"One year I got what was actually a super cool present. My parents had worked for months putting together this awesome art

kit. It was a big toolbox filled with good scissors, glue, paint, colored pencils, glitter, and every other thing a crafty little kid could want."

"The problem was, every time they would go upstairs to add to it, they had a running joke where they would say, 'We're going upstairs to feed your present' or 'We need to take your present for a walk, tee hee tee.' So of course on Christmas morning instead of being a little kid who was stoked to get a huge box of art supplies, I was a little kid who was devastated that I didn't get a puppy."

Santa Claus— otherwise known as Saint Nicholas orKris Kringle—has a long history steeped in Christmas traditions.

Today, he is thought of mainly as the jolly man in red who brings toys to good girls and boys on Christmas Eve, but his story stretches all the way back to the 3rd century, when Saint Nicholas walked the earth and became the patron saint of children. The legend of Santa Claus can be traced back hundreds of years to a monk

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named St. Nicholas. It is believed that Nicholas was born sometime aroundA.D. 280 in Patara, near Myra in modern-dayTurkey. Much admired for his piety and kindness, St. Nicholas became the subject of many legends. It is said that he gave away all of his inherited wealth and traveled the countryside helping the poor and sick.

One of the best-known St. Nicholas stories is the time he saved three poor sisters from being sold into slavery or prostitution by their father by providing them with a dowry so that they could be married.

Over the course of many years, Nicholas’s popularity spread and he became known as the protector of children and sailors. His feast day is celebrated on the anniver-sary of his death, December 6.This was traditionally considered a lucky day to make large purchases or to get married.

By the Renaissance, St. Nicholas was the most popular saint in Europe. Even after the Protestant Refor-mation, when the veneration of saints began to be discouraged, St. Nicholas maintained a positive reputation, especially in Holland.

St. Nicholas made his first inroads intoAmerican popular culture towards the end of the 18th century. In December 1773, and again in 1774, a NewYork newspaper reported that groups of Dutch families had gathered to honor the anniversary of his death.

The name Santa Claus evolved from Nick’s Dutch nickname, Sinter Klaas, a shor-tened form of Sint Nikolaas (Dutch for Saint Nicholas). In 1804, John Pintard, a member of the NewYork Historical Society, distributed woodcuts of St. Nicholas at the society’s annual meeting.The back-ground of the engraving contains now-familiar Santa images

Gathering Together at The Classic DesertAire

Hotel: Firelight, Friendship, and Community

In the desert town ofAlamogordo, where sunsets paint the mountains in soft hues of orange and purple and the night sky comes alive with stars, hospitality has always been more than a service— it’s a way of life.

For decades,The Classic Desert Aire Hotel has been a cornerstone for travelers, neighbors, and groups who gather not just to rest, but to connect.

Now, with the addition of a new outdoor fire pit and the availability of two dedicated gathering spaces, the hotel is expanding its role as both a place of comfort and a hub for community celebrations. From baby showers and birthday parties to

graduations and veteran meetups, the Classic DesertAire Hotel has become a destination where people come together to mark life’s most meaningful moments.

A Fire Pit That Sparks More Than Flames

The newly installed patio fire pit is already becoming one of the hotel’s most cherished amenities. Positioned just outside the main building, the fire pit provides a warm, inviting centerpiece where guests can gather after a long day exploring Alamogordo’s many attractions.

There’s something timeless about firelight—it draws people in, encourages conversation, and creates a sense of shared experience.At the Classic DesertAire Hotel, the fire pit was designed with that spirit in mind. Surrounded by comfortable seating and framed by the open desert air, it

offers guests a perfect setting to relax, sip on a drink, and let the desert night unfold.

“The fire pit has quickly become a favorite spot,” shares the hotel’s management team. “Guests love coming out in the evenings to enjoy the glow, share stories, or simply sit in silence under the stars. It’s more than just an amenity—it’s a place of connection.”

Whether it’s couples cozied up on a cool evening, friends laughing late into the night, or families spending time together, the fire pit is redefining what it means to stay at the Classic DesertAire Hotel. It’s not just a place to sleep—it’s a place to create memories.

Story by JuniorThurman

Spaces Made for Celebrations

Beyond the patio, the hotel now offers two versatile gathering spaces designed for intimate events.These rooms are tailored for groups looking for a warm, accom-modating venue that balances professionalism with the relaxed charm of the Southwest.

Perfect for baby showers, birthday parties, and graduation celebrations, the spaces can be arranged to suit any occasion.Their size makes them ideal for small- to medium-sized gatherings—large enough to host loved ones comfortably, yet cozy enough to feel personal and connected.

The staff takes pride in helping hosts create the perfect environ-ment, from setup and décor to catering

options. Guests have remarked that the rooms feel like “an extension of home—just with better service.” That’s exactly what the hotel aims for: making celebrations stressfree,memorable, and full of joy.

One recent guest, who hosted a birthday celebration, noted:

“We couldn’t have asked for a better venue.The staff made everything seamless, and thespace was just right—not too big, not too small. It felt intimate and special.”

By providing these gathering spaces, the Classic DesertAire Hotel has positioned itself as more than just a place for over-night stays—it’s also a commun-ity gathering point, where life’s milestones are marked and remembered.

Honoring Community:The CVMAMeet and Greet

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The Classic DesertAire Hotel’s commitment to being a hub of community life was on full display during its recent hosting of the CombatVeterans MotorcycleAssociation (CVMA) Meet and Greet.This powerful event brought together veterans, their families, and supporters for a day of camaraderie, reflection, and connection.

The CVMAis dedicated to helping veterans in need, and their events are as much about brotherhood and support as they are about motorcycles. Hosting the group was an honor for the hotel, and it further demonstrated the role the property plays in supporting meaningful causes within the community.

“The energy of the CVMA event was incredible,” says one staff member. “There was a sense of pride, respect, and unity that filled the air.We were humbled to provide a space for such an important gathering.”

By opening its doors to groups like the CVMA, the Classic DesertAire Hotel underscores its identity not just as a business, but as a partner in community building, supporting those who serve and giving back through hospitality.

A Weekly Tradition: Gideon Group Breakfasts

Community connections at the hotel aren’t limited to special events—they also extend into weekly traditions. Every Saturday morning, the hotel proudly hosts the Gideon group for their breakfast meeting.

The Gideons are known worldwide for their dedication to distributing Bibles and spreading encouragement through faith. Their gatherings at the Classic DesertAire Hotel bring together local members for fellowship, discussion, and planning.

Hosting them every week is more than just providing space—it’s a way for the hotel to become woven into the fabric of community life. Guests who stay at the hotel often remark on the sense of purpose and positivity that fills the dining area on Saturday mornings when the Gideons are present.

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including stockings filled with toys and fruit hung over a fireplace.

In 1809,Washington Irving helped to popularize the Sinter Klaas stories when he referred to St. Nicholas as the patron saint of NewYork in his book,The History of NewYork.As his prominence grew, Sinter Klaas was described as everything from a “rascal” with a blue three-cornered hat, red waistcoat, and yellow stockings to a man wearing a broad-brimmed hat and a “huge pair of Flemish trunk hose.”

Gift-giving, mainly centered around children, has been an important part of the Christmas celebration since the holiday’s rejuvenation in the early 19th century. Stores began to advertise Christmas shopping in 1820, and by the 1840s, news-papers were creating separate sections for holiday advertisements, which often featured images of the newlypopular Santa Claus.

In 1841, thousands of children visited a Philadelphia shop to see a life-size Santa Claus model. It was only a matter of time before stores began to attract children, and their parents, with the lure of a peek at a “live” Santa Claus.

In the early 1890s, the SalvationArmy needed money to pay for the free Christmas meals they provided to needy families. They began dressing up unemployed men in Santa Claus

suits and sending them into the streets of NewYork to solicit donations.Those famil-iar SalvationArmy Santas have been ringing bells on the street corners of

American cities ever since.

Perhaps the most iconic department store Santa is Kris Kringle in the 1947 classic Santa Claus movie “Miracle on 34 Street.”Ayoung NatalieWood Continues page 54

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played a little girl who believes Kris Kringle (played by Edmund Gwenn, who won an Oscar for the role) when he says he is the real Santa Claus. “Miracle on 34 Street” was remade in 1994 and starred Lord Richard

Attenborough and MaraWilson.

The Macy’s Santa has appeared at almost every Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade since it began in 1924, and fans of all ages still line up to meet the Macy’s Santa in NewYork City and at stores around the country, where children can take pictures on Santa’s lap and tell him what they want for Christmas.

In 1822, Clement Clarke Moore, an Episcopal minister, wrote a long Christmas poem for his three daughters entitled “An Account of aVisit from St. Nicholas,” more popularly known as “‘TwasThe Night Before Christmas.”

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Moore’s poem, which he was initially hesitant to publish due to the frivolous nature of its subject, is largely responsible for our modern image of Santa Claus as a “right jolly old elf” with a portly figure and the supernatural ability to ascend a chimney with a mere nod of his head!

Although some of Moore’s imagery was probably borrowed from other sources, his poem helped popularize the nowfamiliar image of a Santa Claus who flew from house to house on Christmas Eve in “a miniature sleigh” led by eight flying reindeer to leave presents for deserving children. “AnAccount of aVisit from St. Nicholas” created a new and immediately popularAmerican icon.

In 1881, political cartoonist Thomas Nast drew on Moore’s poem to create the first likeness that matches our modern image of Santa Claus. His cartoon, which appeared in Harper’sWeekly, depicted Santa as a rotund, cheerful man with a full, white beard, holding a sack laden with toys for lucky children. It is Nast who gave Santa his bright red suit trimmed with white fur, North Pole workshop, elves and his wife, Mrs. Claus

Eighteenth-centuryAmerica’s Santa Claus was not the only St. Nicholas-inspired gift-giver to make an appearance at Christmas-time. There are similar figures and Christmas traditions around the world.

Christkind or Kris Kringle was believed to deliver presents to well-behaved Swiss and German children. Meaning “Christ child,” Christkind is an angel-like figure often accompanied by St. Nicholas on his holiday missions.

In Scandinavia, a jolly elf named Jultomten was thought to deliver gifts in a sleigh drawn by goats. English legend explains that Father Christmas visits each home on Christmas Eve to fill children’s stockings with holiday treats. Père Noël is responsible for filling the shoes of French children.

In Italy, there is a story of a woman called La Befana, a kindly witch who rides a broomstick down the chimneys of Italian homes to deliver toys into the stockings of

Poinsettias at Christmas

Poinsettia plants are native to Central America, especially an area of southern Mexico known as 'Taxco del Alarcon' where they flower during the winter.

The ancient Aztecs called them 'cuetlaxochitl'. The Aztecs had many uses for them including using the flowers (they're really special types of leaves known as bracts rather than being flowers) to make a purple dye for clothes and cosmetics and the milky white sap was made into a medicine to treat fevers. (Today we call the sap latex!)

The poinsettia was made

widely known because of a man called Joel Roberts Poinsett (that's why we call them Poinsettia!). He was the first Ambassador from the USA to Mexico in 1825. Poinsett had some greenhouses on his plantations in South Carolina, and while visiting the Taxco area in 1828, he became very interested in the plants. He immediately sent some of the plants back to South Carolina, where he began growing the plants and sending them to friends and botanical gardens.

One of the friends he sent plants to was John Bartram of Philadelphia. At the first Philadelphia flower show, Robert Buist, a plantsman from Pennsylvania saw

What do you call an obnoxious reindeer?

Rude-olph.

What’s everyone’s favorite breakfast in the North Pole?

Mistle toast.

What do you call a bunch of chess masters bragging about theirgames in a hotel lobby over the holidays?

Chess nuts boasting in an open foyer.

Why was the snowman looking through the carrots?

He was picking his nose!

What did the gingerbread man put on his bed?

Acookie sheet!

What did the stamp say to the Christmas card?

Stick with me, and we’ll go places!

What’s every parent’s favorite Christmas carol?

“Silent Night.”

How did the Jedi know what he was getting forChristmas?

He could sense their presents.

Why are Christmas ornaments addicted to Christmas?

Because they get hooked on trees their whole life.

Why is Christmas a mummy’s favorite holiday?

They love the gift wrapping.

How do Christmas trees get ready fora night out? They spruce up!

What is the best possible holiday present?

Abroken drum—you just can’t beat it!

Who is neverhungry at Christmas?

The turkey—he’s always stuffed.

Why did Scrooge decide to invest in reindeer?

Because every buck is deer to him.

the flower and he was probably the first person to have sold the poinsettias under their botanical, or latin name, name 'Euphorbia pulcherrima' (it means, 'the most beautiful Euphorbia'). They were first sold as cut flowers. It was only in the early 1900s that they were sold as whole plants for landscaping and pot plants. The Ecke family from Southern California were one of, if not, the first to sell them as whole plants and they're still the main producer of the plants in the USA. It is thought that they became known as Poinsettia in the mid 1830s when people found out who had first brought them to America from Mexico.

There is an old Mexican legend about how Poinsettias and Christmas come together, it goes like this:

There was once a poor Mexican girl called Pepita who had no present to give the baby Jesus at the Christmas Eve Services. As Pepita walked to the chapel, sadly, her cousin Pedro tried to cheer her up.

' Pepita', he said "I'm sure that even the smallest gift, given by someone who loves him will make Jesus Happy."

Pepita didn't know what she could give, so she picked a small handful of weeds from the roadside and made them into a small bouquet. She felt embarrassed because she could only give this small present to Jesus. As she walked through the chapel to the altar, she remembered what Pedro had said. She began to feel better, knelt down and put the bouquet at the bottom of the nativity scene. Suddenly, the bouquet of weeds burst into bright red flowers, and everyone who saw them were sure they had seen a miracle. From that day on, the bright red flowers were known as the 'Flores de Noche Buena', or 'Flowers of the Holy Night'.

The shape of the poinsettia flower and leaves are sometimes thought as a symbol of the Star of Bethlehem which led theWise Men to Jesus.The red colored leaves symbolize the blood of Christ.The white leaves represent his purity.

Tradition of Christmas Bells

openforchristmas.com

Christmas bells are every-where; in ourtowns, holiday songs, and favorite movies.

‘Jingle Bells’, ‘Silver Bells’, and ‘I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day’– we all happily sing along to these popular carols each year.

But do you ever think about the history of Christmas bells, and how they became such a key part of our festive celebrations?

It’s thought that bell-ringing inWinter stems from the Pagan tradition of scaring away evil spirits with noisemakers.

The tradition of Christmas bells has evolved hugely since then, and it’s now a sign of celebration and coming together.

Although how we use and perceive bells may have changed over time, some things have stayed the same.

Bell-ringing has always been a part of winter since ancient times began.

It wasn’t long after that bells came to symbolize celebration and holidays, and this tradition has been with us ever since.

Noisemakers were originally used to scare away evil spirits at the night, and some of these noisemakers were bells.

The dark motive behind ringing bells in winter was quickly forgotten, and people began ringing bells for the fun of it.

Eventually, the festive bellringing was introduced into celebrations and announcements –such as the beginning of a church service.

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Bells are and have always been used as a form of communication.

Before the internet or any form of modern communication, bells made it easy to quickly inform towns and villages of news without needing a town crier.

They would announce the start of ceremonies, an important person’s arrival, or the death or wedding of people.

Saint Patrick shared his teaching across Ireland and used bells to mark the beginning of his

lessons and the beginning of Mass.

This started the tradition of ringing bells to mark the start of a church service – which is still used today.

Despite bells being used to symbolize a church service all year round, the bell-ringing around Christmas time is what the church is known for.

From Santa’s clothes, to wreaths and tree decorations, and in the hands of choirs and carolsingers, bells are everywhere!

But aside from the history of Christmas bells, there’s no real symbolism behind why we use bells instead of any other instrument.

In fact, it more likely comes down to affordability and practicality.

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Bells are jolly, but they’re also lightweight, cheap, and easy to carry around.

This is perfect for carolers heading door to door, and for church choirs who maybe don’t have huge budgets.

All year round bells are used to start an announcement and essentially to get people’s attention.

Of course, they’re also used in music, but their more common use is to be loud and proud.

Churches use bells as a call to worship, and inAnglican and Catholic Churches, the Christian day started at sunset.

On Christmas Eve, the first service after sunset is still observed as the first official Christmas Day service.

The infamous Christmas Eve

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Continued from previous page bells announce the beginning of this service.

There are three different types of Christmas bells. One is the ‘jingle bells’or ‘sleigh bells’which are small and usually used as decoration or accessories.Then you have the handheld choir bells, used for carol-singing and in choirs, and finally, the large church bells that ring out on Christmas Eve.

From warding away evil spirits to the jingle bells on Santa’s boots, these jolly instruments have come a long way.

The tradition of Christmas bells is used differently around the world and in different religions.

But one thing is always the same – bells bring people together and symbolize the start of the celebration.

Next time you hear the church bells ringing out on Christmas Eve, think back to hundreds of years ago

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For the staff, it’s a remin-der that hospitality extends beyond checking in guests and serving meals. It’s about being part of something larger: a network of connection, tradition, and belonging.

Why These Additions Matter

The new fire pit, the event spaces, and the partnerships with groups like the CVMAand the Gideons all point to one truth:The Classic DesertAire Hotel is more than a place to rest your head. It’s a place to gather, to celebrate, and to find community.

In today’s travel world, people are increasingly seeking experiences that feel genuine and rooted in place.Ahotel is no longer just a stop along the way— it’s part of the story. By investing in communal spaces and fostering local connections, the Classic DesertAire Hotel is ensuring that every guest leaves with more than just a receipt; they leave with memories.

Imagining Your Event at the Classic Desert Aire Hotel

Imagine celebrating your child’s graduation in a space where friends and family can gather comfortably, with staff who help handle the details so you can focus on the moment. Picture hosting a baby shower surrounded by loved ones, laughter filling a

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Good Fairy".An early expression of this sentiment using the phrase of "the true meaning" is found in TheAmerican Magazine, vol. 28 (1889):

"to give up one's very self – to think only of others – how to bring the greatest happiness to others –that is the true meaning of Christmas."

The phrase is especially associated with Charles Dickens'A Christmas Carol (1843), in which an old miser named Ebeneezer Scrooge is taught the true meaning of Christmas by three ghostly visitors who review his past and foretell his future.

The topic was taken up by satirists such as Stan Freberg and Tom Lehrer during the 1950s and eventually by the influential TV specialACharlie Brown Christmas, first aired in 1965. In the special, Charlie Brown becomes stressed by the preparations and social expectations of holiday rather than becoming excited, much to his confusion. His best friend Linus van Pelt eventually clarifies the actual meaning of the holiday through reciting theAnnunciation to the Shepherds near the end of the program.

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Or envision a cool autumn evening by the fire pit, where the glow of the flames illuminates not just faces, but stories—moments of connection that become part of your family’s history.

The Classic DesertAire Hotel invites guests to see the property not just as a hotel, but as a backdrop for their most meaningful occasions. Whether you’re passing throughAlamogordo for a night, plan-ning a small event, or attending a community gathering, the hotel is ready to provide not just space, but an atmosphere of warmth and welcome.

A Bright Future of togetherness

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Sinfully Spicy Apple Pie

WARNING! This green chile apple pie is addictive and you will be enslaved to the green sweet heat! Try at your own risk of never eating a plain apple pie ever again.

Crust:

• 2 ½ cups unbleached all purpose flour

• 3 tsp sugar

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• ½ pound butter

• ½ cup iced chile juice (reserved from steeping or frozen chile) (iced water can be substituted)

• 2 cups shreddedTillamook sharp cheddar cheese

Filling:

• 10 Granny Smith Green Apples (2.5 pounds) peeled, cored and sliced.

• 2 cups Big Jim green chile (roasted, peeled & chopped)

• 1 ½ cup sugar

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• 1 ½ tsp cinnamon

• ¼ cup chile juice (reserved from steeping or frozen chile) (water can be substituted)

• ½ cup flour

• 4 ounces butter

• 2Tbsp milk

• Sugar and cinnamon for sprinkling

• Equipment:

• 9.5 inch Pyrex pie pan

• Food Processor

Directions

Crust:

Chop butter into ¼ inch cubes and keep cold in refrigerator. Food process all dry ingredients until thoroughly mixed.

Fold in butter until mixture resembles crumbs (pea size). Add cold chile juice. Mix in shredded cheese until mixture starts to form large clump (20 seconds or so).

Divide dough in half and press into 4 inch disk. Place on greased plate, cover and refrigerate.

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Filling:

Combine apple, sugar, flour, chile, cinnamon, butter and chile juice in bowl and mix. Let rest in refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes.

Dough:

Roll out crust 1 inch bigger then upside down 9.5 inch pie pan. Grease pan and lightly flower. Place bottom crust in pie pan allowing excess to hang over the rim and lightly flower. Roll out top crust. Pour apple mixture into pie pan and place top crust on. Pinch together top and bottom crusts and roll up.

With the tines of a fork, poke holes for steam venting. Place pie in refrigerator for 15 minutes. Pre heat oven to 350 degrees. Brush crust with milk and sprinkle the cinnamon and sugar on top. Place on middle rack for 60 minutes or until crust turns dark golden brown. Allow to cool for 20 minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

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With these new additions, the Classic DesertAire Hotel is looking forward to contin-uing its tradition of hospitality in new and exciting ways.The fire pit and event spaces are only the beginning. Plans are underway to expand programming, introduce more community events, and build even stronger connections with local organizations.

But at the heart of it all remains the same philosophy that has guided the hotel for years: hospitality rooted in care, culture, and connection.

Conclusion: More Than a Stay, A Shared Experience

The Classic DesertAire Hotel has always been a place where travelers find comfort.With the addition of the new outdoor fire pit, the availa-bility of two versatile gathering spaces, and the privilege of hosting groups like the CVMAand the Gideons, it has become some-thing even greater: a place where people come together.

Whether you’re celebr-ating life’s milestones, meeting with friends, or simply gathering around a fire to share stories under the desert sky, the Classic Desert Aire Hotel is ready to wel-come you.

In the glow of the fire pit, in the laughter of a birthday party, or

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One day a farmer's donkey fell into a well.

The animal cried and cried for hours as the farmer tried to do something to save it.

Eventually the farmer decided that the donkey was too old and the well had been dry for a long time, so getting the donkey out of the well was not worth it.

He called his neighbors, and each of them took a shovel and began to throw earth into the well.

The donkey, realizing what was happening, began to cry. and growl even louder.

At one point, to every-one's surprise, the donkey stopped complaining after a few throws of dirt.

The farmer looked down into the well and was amazed at what he saw...

With each throw of earth, the donkey did something incredible: he stamped the ground with his hooves and took a step above the ground.

Very quickly, everyone saw with surprise the donkey come to the mouth of the well, climb over the edge and trot out.

Moral of the story: Life will knock you down, but we can climb out of the deepest pits if we don't

7 Reasons The Bible Is Still Relevant in Today’s Society

The Bible has stood the test of time, guiding millions worldwide. It remains relevant today, teaching us valuable lessons. Let’s explore some of these timeless teachings and how they apply to our lives now.

1. Moral Guidance

The Bible offers moral guidance in our fast-paced world. It helps us understand right from wrong. Here are some key moral lessons:

Love thy neighbor:This principle encourages kindness and compassion towards others.

The Golden Rule:Treat others as you wish to be treated; this encourages empathy in our interactions.

Forgiveness:The Bible emphasizes the importance of

forgiving others, which aids in personal healing and peace.

2. Resilience in Adversity

The Bible tells stories of people who faced great challenges but remained strong. Job’s story teaches us that enduring hardships can lead to growth and understanding of life’s purpose.

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, Job’s experience can inspire you to keep going and find hope, no matter the situation.

3. The Importance of Community

Community is key in the Bible for individual well-being. Early Christians supported each other, a practice we should follow today. Here’s how you can draw from this idea:

Participate in local gatherings or groups that share your beliefs.

Engage in volunteer work to strengthen community bonds.

Encourage open dialogue about struggles in a supportive environment.

4. Finding Purpose

The Bible encourages us to seek our God-given purpose.This quest for purpose is timeless and resonates in today’s world. Many biblical figures, like Esther and Paul, show us how to pursue purpose with faith and dedication. You might consider the following

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steps to find your purpose today:

Reflect: Spend time contemplating your passions and talents.

Pray: Seek divine guidance through prayer to understand your mission.

Take action: Begin small projects that align with your identified purpose.

5. The Value of Wisdom

Proverbs is a treasure trove of wisdom for everyday life. It teaches us about understanding, patience, and making wise decisions. For example:

Seek knowledge: Proverbs teaches that gaining wisdom is more valuable than wealth.

Think before acting: Impulse decisions often lead to regret, whereas contemplation can lead to better outcomes.

Hebrews 4:12 (NIV) – “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any doubleedged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

This verse reminds us that God’sWord is not outdated—it is living and powerful, shaping our lives even today.

6. Relationships and Communication

Good communication is vital for healthy relationships, and the Bible provides actionable advice. It encourages honesty and building each other up.This guidance is essential in a world often dominated by misunderstandings and conflicts

Consider these key points when interacting with others:

Practice active listening:Truly hear what others are saying before responding.

Use kind words:Your language can uplift or discourage; choose to uplift.

Address conflicts calmly: Approach disagreements with a desire to understand, not to win.

7. Hope and Faith

In uncertain times, having hope is vital.The Bible is filled with passages that inspire faith in the face of difficulties.Whether it’s the assurance of better days ahead or the promise of divine support, these messages can help you find peace and purpose amidst life’s chaos.

The Bible remains relevant today, addressing essential aspects of human life. From moral guidance to resilience, purpose, and the value of community, its lessons are timeless.

You can draw strength and inspiration from its teachings, making them applicable in your

Continued frompage 99 everyday life.

You are not alone in your journey; many find solace and direction in the Bible’s wisdom, showing that its teachings are timeless.

Psalm 119:105 (NIV) – “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”

In a world filled with uncertainty, the Bible continues to guide people with truth, clarity, and direction.

How Biblical Principles Shape Today’s Moral and Ethical Frameworks

In today’s world, we face many moral and ethical challenges. Many of our values come from ancient sources, like the Bible.The Bible’s teachings continue to influence our lives, guiding us on what is right and wrong.

The Bible is a foundation for many moral frameworks. Its stories and parables teach us about compassion, respect, and justice. For example, Matthew 22:39 teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves, showing the importance of empathy.

Influence on Common Law and Ethical Standards

Many modern laws come from the Bible.TheTen Commandments guide societies worldwide.These ancient rules teach us about honesty, respect for

others’property, and the value of life.

These ideas have shaped laws and court decisions for centuries. For example, laws against theft and murder come from these commands.This shows the Bible’s lasting impact on our legal standards.

The Power of Forgiveness

The Bible teaches the power of forgiveness. In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus tells us to forgive others as we seek forgiveness ourselves. Forgiveness is key in today’s world, where conflicts are common.

Forgiveness can reduce tensions and help communities heal. It promotes understanding and acceptance. By forgiving, we can build better relationships and find peace, proving the Bible’s timeless wisdom.

2Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV) –

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

The Bible provides wisdom and guidance for all aspects of life, proving its relevance across generations..

Community and Support

The Bible emphasizes the importance of community. Phrases

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like “bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2) encourage us to support each other.This is vital in today’s world, where isolation is common.

When we help each other, we create a strong sense of belonging. This is important in times of crisis, where support from others is a source of strength.

Jus�ce and Equality

The Bible also teaches us about justice and equality. It urges us to care for the poor, the widow, and the oppressed.These teachings are essential for social justice today.

For example, Proverbs 31:8 tells us to speak up for those who can’t speak for themselves.This inspires many to advocate for the disadvantaged, showing the ongoing need for support and advocacy.

Personal Morality and Decision-Making

The Bible guides us in making personal decisions. Its teachings help us find answers to ethical dilemmas. Values like honesty, integrity, and selfcontrol shape our character and choices.

By reflecting on these values, we can face challenges with confidence and purpose. Strategies for applying Biblical principles include seeking counsel, praying for guidance, and considering the impact of our decisions on others.

The Bible’s legacy is clear; it shapes our moral and ethical

frameworks. By following its teachings, we can positively impact our communities, promote justice, and make better decisions for a fulfilling life.

Matthew 24:35 (NIV) –“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”

Jesus affirms that God’sWord is eternal and unchanging, making it relevant regardless of the time period.

Conclusion: 7 ReasonsThe Bible Is Still Relevant inToday’s Society

The Bible’s importance in today’s world is huge. It teaches us timeless lessons that help us in our fast-changing lives. Lessons like love, compassion, forgiveness, and humility guide us through life’s ups and downs.

These teachings shape our values and ethics.They help us understand how to treat others and tackle big problems.They are not just for religious people but for everyone.

The stories and parables in the Bible inspire and make us think. Each verse invites us to look at our lives and understand humanity better. By reading about others’ struggles, we connect with them and feel empathy.The Bible’s teachings also guide our talks on justice, equality, and helping others. These principles help us make a

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positive impact on the world.They empower us to build a kinder society.

By following the Bible’s wisdom, we learn more about ourselves and the world.We make our lives richer and the world a better place.The Bible shines a light in our uncertain times, showing us the way forward.

www.scripturesshare.com

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in the quiet fellowship of a Saturday breakfast, the hotel continues to live out its mission—offering not just rooms, but experiences that bring people closer together.,At the Classic DesertAire Hotel, every flame, every gathering, and every smile tells a story.TheThe next one could be yours.

Gingerbread houses are among the most popular Christmas foods. The rich, spicy, warm ginger-bread flavor never fails to bring in the Christmas spirit.

However, gingerbread initially had little to no connection with Christmas, and some theories of gingerbread house origins are rather twisted.

Ginger was used as a medical treatment for centuries. Later, people discovered it was also an excellent preservative and started adding it to bread.

While the real roots of gingerbread houses are hard to track, we know for sure that they originated in Germany.

The tradition then spread

across all of Europe and was brought to the US by colonists.

Today, baking gingerbread is a fun and bonding family tradition. Kids love decorating gingerbread biscuits with frosting, and adults are just as excited to participate in gingerbread fairs and gingerbread house-building contests.

Ginger root was first cultivated in China about 5,000 years ago and was mainly used as a medical treatment rather than a baking ingredient. It later spread to the Middle East through the Silk Road.

The first known gingerbread recipe dates from around 2400 BC Greece. However, the actual date and place ginger began to be used

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from previous page in baking are nearly impossible to trace.

The first records of gingerbread baking in Europe date to the 11th century. Ginger, along with other spices, was brought to Europe by crusaders from the Middle East.

It quickly became popular due to its capability of preserving bread.

We don’t know for sure when European bakers started baking gingerbread biscuits with elaborate designs. Throughout the 13th century, the gingerbread biscuit recipe spread across entire Europe, from Sweden to Belgium and Italy.

The first gingerbread biscuits shaped as human figurines were made for Elizabeth I of England. They

were meant to resemble her important guests.

At about the same time as English bakers made the first gingerbread men for Queen Elizabeth I, German bakers came up with the idea of making gingerbread houses.

Some suggest such a design was chosen because gingerbread is sturdy enough to be used in complex constructions.

German gingerbread houses were similar to modern their modern version: they often featured roofs covered in sugar to resemble snow and walls adorned with intricate ornaments.

Brothers Grimm tales played a major role in popularizing the gingerbread house tradition. In the story of Hansel and Gretel, the main

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characters stumble upon a gingerbread house in the forest.

A witch who lives inside the house wants to fatten the children before eating them, but Gretel outwits her. After killing the witch, the kids return home with her treasures. Happy end.

Some historians suggest that gingerbread houses first appeared in the Hansel and Gretel tale, and German bakers borrowed the idea, not vice versa. If this is true, the origin of gingerbread houses is rather dark and twisted.

The thing is, Brother Grimm didn’t come up with Hansel and Gretel tale’s plot out of the blue. The tale was published in the 19th century but was based on a German

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Ullr stands as a unique figure in Norse mythology, often depicted as a master archer with deep ties to the winter elements. His association with the bow is not just symbolic of his combat prowess but also connects him to the natural world, particularly the yew tree.

The name Ýdalir, which translates to “yew dales”, further emphasizes this connection. Yew trees, essential for crafting bows, were important in Norse culture, and Ullr’s association with them underscores his mastery in archery.

His calm and composed demeanor sets him apart from other more boisterous Norse gods. While he might not be as frequently mentioned as Odin or Thor, Ullr’s

Come warm up by the bonfire, and savor delicious food from local concessions. It’s the perfect chance to meet new people, share stories, and welcome winter with friends and family.

Cloudcroft Ice Rink

tales often highlight his unwavering sense of duty, honor, and his deeprooted connection to the natural world, especially the snowy landscapes of Scandinavia.

Ullr’s primary symbol is his bow, a testament to his unparalleled skills in archery. The yew tree, essential for crafting bows, is intricately linked with Ullr. The name Ýdalir, meaning “yew dales”, further emphasizes this connection.

The yew tree’s association with archery and its use in crafting bows is well-documented, underscoring Ullr’s deep connection to archery and the natural world.

One of the few myths that prominently feature Ullr is the tale of his guardianship overAsgard. According to the narrative, during a period of exile imposed upon Odin, Ullr was chosen to take his place.

This wasn’t a mere placeholder role; Ullr assumed full sovereignty overAsgard, overseeing the realm of the gods. For ten years, Ullr ruled, ensuring the stability and prosperity ofAsgard until Odin’s return.

The story of Ullr’s guardianship overAsgard stands out not just for its content but also for its rarity. It’s puzzling that a god of Ullr’s stature, with evident significance in

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continued from previous page rituals, oath-taking, and daily life, has so few myths to his name.

It’s possible that many tales involving Ullr were lost over time. Norse myths were primarily passed down orally, and only a fraction of these stories were eventually committed to writing.

Over centuries, tales could have been forgotten, altered, or simply not recorded. The absence of myths doesn’t negate Ullr’s importance. Instead it underscores the transient nature of oral traditions and the gaps in our understanding of Norse mythology.

Continued from page 111 folk story that may date back to the 14th century.

In the 14th century, Germany was undergoing a great famine when parents turned children out to fend for themselves. Considering this, the connection of gingerbread houses with Christmas seems strange.

At the end of the 16th century, gingerbread baking became an acknowledged profession. Bakers started gathering into guilds. By the 17th century, only professional bakers were permitted to bake gingerbread biscuits.

At that time, gingerbread was often involved in religious ceremonies. Biscuits were molded into images of saints.

Depiction of religious sym-bols, even in edible form, was considered a sacred practice and thus was only allowed to the guild members.

Gingerbread biscuits were sold outside churches on Sundays, especially on religious events. Decorated biscuits often served as gifts or love tokens and were particularly popular at weddings, where they were issued to each guest.

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people on their name day. Some carried gingerbread biscuits as talismans to battles or to ward off evil spirits.

Only on Christmas and Easter were regular people allowed to bake gingerbread. That’s how gingerbread baking became a Christmas tradition.

Most people, however, weren’t skilled enough to make gingerbread houses and instead made biscuits in simpler shapes.

Some theologians suggest that ginger was a gift to Jesus from the fourth Magi who couldn’t complete his journey to Bethlehem. This elabo-ration on the Gospel of Matthew is based on an 8thcentury Greek document.

According to the legend, the fourth Mage became sick

along the way and had to stay in Jerusalem. Before he died, he gave his chest of ginger roots to a rabbi who took care of him during his illness.

The rabbi then told him about the prophecy of a great king who shall come to the Jews. The king would be born in Bethlehem, translating as “House of Bread” from Hebrew.

This theory counteracts the widely accepted version of the Star Prophecy, which states that the three Magi who made their way to Christ found out about his birth from the appearance of the Star of Bethlehem in the sky.

The same document mentions that Jewish acolytes would make houses from bread as a symbol of their faith in Jesus, who was born in Bethlehem.

Like many Christmas traditions, gingerbread baking arrived in America with British colonists.

The first-ever American cookbook, American Cookery, written by Amelia Simmons, features three gingerbread recipes, including soft and crispy varieties.

The soft gingerbread recipe stated: “No. 2. Rub three pounds of sugar, two pounds of continued page 130

Shane Thompson is an Instrumentation Specialist for the Dunn Solar Telescope at Sunspot Solar Observatory.

He is responsible for the smooth and functional operation of the telescope—all 350 feet of it, from the 220 feet below the ground to the 130 feet aboveground. He also doubles up as a telescope operator, and assists visiting scientists at the telescope.

Thompson has two Bachelor's degrees - the first in Electrical Engineering from NMSU, and the second in Business Administration from Adams State University, Colorado. After six years in the Navy and a few years in the oilfields, Thompson joined Sunspot in 2022, where he has worked ever since.

https://sunspot.nmsu.edu

Located at an altitude of 9200 ft (2800 m) in the scenic Lincoln National Forest, Sunspot Solar Observatory is home to gorgeous vistas, historical landmarks, and one of the largest active solar telescopes in the world. Visitors can explore our interactive astronomy museum, walk nature trails, and enjoy lunch at our picnic tables

Sunspot Solar Observatory provides institutions with access to one of the world's leading solar facilities, serving as a training ground for the next generation of solar researchers, and to ultimately enhance our understanding of the Sun

Located 1/2 between Cloudcroft and Timberon

During his leisure time, Thompson loves to walk around the observatory looking at nature. He likes collecting fossils of marine creatures found in the mountains around Sunspot. When asked about how he would describe Sunspot to a stranger, he says, “Sunspot led the way to technological advancement in solar science. This is a unique place, full of history, and with the potential to lead the

from page 125

butter, into four pounds of flour, add 20 eggs, 4 ounces ginger, 4 spoons rosewater, bake as No. 1.”

This version of gingerbread was especially common in the US. Another popular gingerbread recipe was attributed to George Washington’s mother, Mary ball Washington.

Historical records state that Mary Ball Washington served her gingerbread to Marquis de Lafayette in Fredericksburg.

This way, her recipe became known as Lafayette ginger-bread. Lafayette gingerbread recipe features cinnamon, clove, allspice, orange juice, and orange zest.

However, some argue the Lafayette gingerbread origin is no more than a legend. What we know for sure is that in Virginia, gingerbread cookies were used to sway voters to favor one candidate over another.

The world’s largest ginger-bread house was created in 2013 in Bryan, Texas, by Traditions Club. Measuring 60 feet in length and 42 feet in width, it weighed nearly 3,000 pounds.

You could easily walk into such a house and experience yourself in Hansel or Gretel’s role. If that’s not impressive enough, its estimated calorific value was nearly 36 million.

A Brief History of Eggnog

Eggnog really makes you wonder:

How did humans first think chugging a spiced and spiked egg-yolkand-milk mixture was a good idea?

It’s a bit like Gaston from Beauty and the Beast: “Now that I’m grown, I eat five dozen eggs, so I’m roughly the size of a barge!”Yet despite its “love it or hate it” fame, eggnog has charmed drinkers for nearly a millennium.

While culinary historians debate its exact lineage, most agree eggnog originated from the early medieval Britain “posset,” a hot, milky, ale-like

drink. By the 13th century, monks were known to drink a posset with eggs and figs. Milk, eggs, and sherry were foods of the wealthy, so eggnog was often used in toasts to prosperity and good health.

Eggnog became tied to the holidays when the drink hopped the pond in the 1700s.American colonies were full of farms—and chickens and cows—and cheaper rum, a soon-signature ingredient. Mexico adopted the very eggnog varietal “rompope,” and Puerto Rico enjoys the “coquito,” which adds coconut milk.The English name’s etymology however remains a mystery. Some say “nog” comes from “noggin,” meaning a wooden cup, or “grog,” a strong beer. By the late 18th century, the combined term “eggnog” stuck.

Eggnog purists argue that those

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Continued from previous page who don’t like theYuletide drink have simply never tasted the real thing. Sugar-laced supermarket versions can’t hold a candle to the homemade goodness, especially since the US Food and Drug Administration permits that the drink can be made from as little as 1% egg yolk.That often borders on “milknog” or egg flavoring.

Our founders would have had none of that. George Washington even penned his own famous heavy-on-thealcohol eggnog recipe. Only one problem: he forgot to record the exact number of eggs. Cooks in his era estimated a dozen would do:

One quart cream, one quart milk, one dozen tablespoons sugar, one pint brandy, 1/2 pint rye whiskey, 1/2 pint Jamaica rum, 1/4 pint sherry—mix liquor first, then separate yolks and whites of eggs, add sugar to beaten yolks, mix well.Add milk and cream, slowly beating. Beat whites of eggs until stiff and fold slowly into mixture. Let set in cool place for several days.Taste frequently.

So as you enjoy your holiday cheer, please drink responsibly. Not just for the alcohol, but also for the calories: eggnog can pack in upwards of 400 big ones per cup.

there is a Santa Claus

(1897)

In 1897, Dr. Philip O'Hanlon, a coroner's assistant on Manhattan's UpperWest Side, was asked a question by his then eightyear-old daughter,Virginia, which many a parent has been asked before: whetherSanta Claus really exists.

O'Hanlon deferred. He suggestedVirginia wrote asking the question to one of NewYork's most prominent newspapers at the

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time,The Sun, assuring her that "If you see it inThe Sun, it's so."

Dear Editor: I am 8 years old.

Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.

Papa says, 'If you see it in The Sun it's so.'

Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?

The response toVirginia's letter by one of the paper's editors, Francis Pharcellus Church, remains the most reprinted editorial ever to run in any newspaper in the English language and found itself the subject of books, a film and television series.

In his response Church goes beyond a simple "yes of course" to explore the philosophical issues behindVirginia's request to tell her "the truth" and

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in the process lampoon a certain skepticism which he had found rife inAmerican society since the suffering of the CivilWar.

His message in short - there is a reality beyond the visible.The response toVirginia's letter by one of the paper's editors, Francis Pharcellus Church, remains the most reprinted editorial ever to run in any newspaper in the English language and found itself the subject of books, a film and television series. In his response Church goes beyond a simple "yes of course" to explore the philosophical issues behindVirginia's request to tell her "the truth" and in the process lampoon a certain skepticism which he had found rife inAmerican society since the suffering of the CivilWar. His message in shortthere is a reality beyond the visible.

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong.They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds.All minds,

Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes,VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy.Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were noVIRGINIAS.There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence.We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight.The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies!You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus.

The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real?Ah,VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus!Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever.A thousand years from now,Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

Sheriff John Owen and the Bad Guys

Horses, cattle, cash and gold were ripe forthe taking duringWhite Oaks’gold rush days. It took a sheriff with courage and clever conviction to outwit them.

JohnW. Owen was that sheriff.

John Owen & two of his sons

AMissouri native, Owen arrived in New Mexico prepared to raise cattle and horses on a ranch about 35 miles north ofWhite Oaks, heading toward Corona.As a Mason

he was called to community service, and thus was elected first

John and Maggie Owen

deputy sheriff and then sheriff of Lincoln County in 1906.

In these days of high-tech crime, the ruses and tricks that bandits used back then seem simple, even comical. But there was one oppor-tunistic outlaw, Henry Williams, pulled just about every trick used by the bad guys who preyed on the gold rush town during theWildWest years.

There was a morning when Williams, who’d been staying at a boarding house inWhite Oaks, decided to skip out on his considerable bill. So he stole a horse and lit out for Carrizozo, planning to take the train to El Paso, where he could melt into the growing town and escape.

First problem: the train was late, and he knew that Sheriff Owen would be in hot pursuit.

Williams started walking south along the tracks, hoping to stay out

of sight until he could hop on the train further down the line.

The train delay worked for Owen. He hurried his horse to White Oaks, hopped on the train and rode it about nine miles until he sawWilliams walking fast alongside the rails.

Owen hopped off and the two ended up in a footrace through the mesquite and scrub. As theWhite Oaks Eagle reported it, “long and lean”Williams soon outran the “sturdier” Owen, leaving the sheriff alone and without a horse in the rough country below the Sacramento Mountains.

But Owen had thought ahead, arranging for the Carrizozo hack driver Ben Goff to meet him at Malagro, a place that is hard to

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Continued from previous page find on a map these days.

At Malagro, Owen sped off on the horse Goff had brought him, and soon caught up with Williams.

Owen marched the outlaw back toWhite Oaks, where they locked him up. It was enough of an esca-pade to delight the town and make the paper.

That wasn’t the end of the story, however.Williams somehow burned a hole in the wall of the “calaboose” where his shackles were attached, and then jerked and yanked against them them till he was free. He stole another horse and escaped again.

“Deputy Owen is after him,” wrote theWhite Oaks Eagle, “and it is hoped that he will again land him behind the bars.”Tantalizingly, the paper never revisited the matter.Too much else was going on in that raw young town, where the mountain’s mineral wealth drew miners, merchants, marauders and immigrants alike.

Not everyone thrived, and some went bankrupt, or lost their holdings through debt. One task of the sheriff was to sell those holdings on the steps of the county courthouse, often a hotly contested undertaking. He also oversaw hangings, from building the gallows to the final execution.

None of his tasks was guaran-teed to be simple or peaceful undertakings. In the many photos taken of Owen over the years, he always looked resolute and calm. Many of these photos and documents are on display in the Lincoln Museum in Lincoln.

Owen was married to Maggie Cave Bush Owen, a graceful beauty of tough ranching stock.They had seven children. Of their two daughters one, Lula, died young and tragically; but the other, Reatha, grew up to make her mark on the town as the longtime owner of the Brown Hotel, which now houses the Corona Museum of Frontier Life.

John and Maggie Owen also owned the old Owen Hotel in Corona in their retirement.

Alice Cooper

“Prompt and faithful in his duties.” John served some years as sheriff. He died some years before Maggie, who marked his gravestone in the Corona Cemetery with the simple phrase, “Gone but not forgotten.” Maggie is buried beside him.

Copyright Corona Museum of Frontier Life 2025

Where Did Merry Christmas Originate From?

Bill Graham

“Merry Christmas” is actually a term that originates from hundreds of years ago.And, today is a term widely used in both British English andAmerican English. So, where did the term originate from?

“Merry Christmas” was first used commercially in 1843 when the term was used on the world’s first printed Christmas card written as “AMerry Christmas and a Happy NewYear toYou”.This famous Christmas card has now gone on display in London at the Charles Dickens Museum.

However, the phrase actually dates back even further and we

know originated in the 1500s. Perhaps in the year 1534.This was recorded by a letter written by John Fisher, a bishop, toThomas Cromwell, the chief minister of HenryVIII, wishing him a “Merry Christmas”.

This term later became popular from two sources – the commercial Christmas card, and it was also 1843 when Charles Dickens published his book called AChristmas Carol.Within the book, “Merry Christmas” has been repeated a total of 21 times.

Following this, the famous Christmas Carol “WeWishYou a Merry Christmas” was popularised in 1935 byArthurWarrell when he performed the carol with his group on the 6th of December.

However, the date and author of this Christmas carols remain a mystery, even to this day. Saying that, it is likely that the carol originated in the 16th century, around the same time of when the term was first recorded.

Don't panic if you start to notice trees hanging from the ceiling by theirtrunks, you're not inThe Upside Down. You're just noticing a Christmas tree trend that has blown up in the last few years: the upside down Christmas tree.

The name is pretty self explanatory: the tree is placed with its trunk towards the ceiling and the point (where the treetopper usually goes) facing the ground. If you have any doubts about how cool the style actually is, just check outAriana Grande's Instagram.

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Given how trendy the upside down tree is, you might think that it's a more recent way of fashioning a traditional Christmas tree. But inverted trees have actually been around for centuries. If you look into any popular, recognizably Christmasy tradition, like kissing under the mistletoe or tasting candy canes, you will see a complicated story behind how customs get their meanings.And the upside down Christmas tree meaning is no exception!

The symbol of the upside down tree may have begun in 7th century. Folklore around the topic credits a Benedictine monk named Boniface. According to the legend, Boniface saw a group of pagans worshipping an oak tree, and in response he cut down the tree and in its place grew a fir.Then, Boniface cut down the fir and turned it upside down, using its triangular shape as a way of

explaining the HolyTrinity to the pagans.

But it was southern Poland where the trend really thrived. In a tradition called podłazniczek, Polish people used "fruit, nuts, sweets wrapped in shiny paper, straw, ribbons, gold-painted pine cones" to decorate a spruce hanging upside down from the ceiling in the center of the room, according toThe Spruce.

As Bernd Brunner explains in his book Inventing Christmas, it was often the poorer families of the 19th century that hung their Christmas trees from the rafters.As Brunner writes, "In the small common rooms of the lower classes, there was simply no space."

Brunner also theorizes that we can blame the advent of plastered ceilings for why we no longer see Story continues next page

hanging trees.As Brunner explains, without rafters, "the most they could bear was perhaps an Advent wreath or a wooden frame with candles."

In recent years, these topsyturvy trees have made a comeback, particularly in department stores and malls. Besides just being a striking design choice, it's actually pretty beneficial. Since it's attached to the ceiling, this way of hanging clears up more floor space for merchandise.Also, more ornaments are displayed on eyelevel.

The idea of decorating a tree for Christmas b-egan in Germany, where they used to add fruits and nuts to trees once the leaves fell off to symbolize the promise of spring to come.

But in 1605, a fur tree was brought inside and adorned with paper roses, candles, nuts, and fruits, which was groundbreaking! The idea of decorating a tree indoors took off and spread across Germany.

In the 1800s, German immigrants brought the tradition to America, who made their own interpretations. Early ornaments were made out of whatever items that families had available to them – fruit (especially apples), nuts, strings of popcorn and cranberries, paper streamers, candles, and metal foil. continued next page

Hans Greiner started making glass ball ornaments (called baubles) during the 1800s, which became the first manufactured Christmas ornaments. In the late 19th century, the enterprising F.W. Woolworth brought the idea to America, where he sold more than $25 million worth per year.

We use candy canes for everything from Christmas tree decorations to stocking stuffers! Another German Christmas tradition, the candy cane originated around 1670. Designed to help children sit still during Christmas services, the candy was shaped like a “J” to represent crooks of the shepherds that visited baby Jesus. Around 1900, the red stripes and peppermint flavoring were added. Christians believe that the red stripes represent the blood that Jesus shed on the cross and the peppermint flavoring represents the hyssop plant that was used for Biblical purification. Eventually, manufacturers began using injection molding (injecting molten material into a mould) with plastic materials, which allowed for a variety of other shapes and sizes.

The Christmas pickle is definitely one of the weirdest Christmas ornament traditions! It emerged in the late 19th century as a game that parents created for their children. They bought a glass pickle ornament, hid it inside the tree, where it blended in with the branches, and asked the children to hunt for it. Whoever found the pickle first got an extra gift!