When a family eats together, it is chance for interaction of feelings of love, joy and interest

According to Greek folklore, Saint Basil was a generous and compassionate bishop in the 4th century. The story goes that during a time of famine, the people of his town were reluctant to accept charity, so Saint Basil distributed gifts and money in secret. To deliver these gifts without revealing his identity, he chose to use children and servants to distribute the presents, becoming a precursor to the modern idea of Santa's elves.

In contemporary Greece, the tradition of Saint Basil's gift-giving has blended with the global image of Santa Claus. While the Americanized Santa is often referred to as "Άγιος Βασίλης" (Agios Vasilis) in Greece, some regional variations still exist.

On New Year's Eve, Greek children place their shoes by the fireplace or under the Christmas tree, eagerly awaiting gifts from Saint Basil. It's believed that Saint Basil visits homes during the night and leaves small presents and sweets for well-behaved children.

In addition to the gifts, a sweet bread called "Vasilopita" is a central part of the celebration. Baked with a hidden coin inside, the person who finds the coin in their slice is said to have good luck for the coming year.

The Greek Christmas and New Year traditions reflect a unique blend of religious customs and regional folklore, creating a festive atmosphere filled with warmth, generosity, and the spirit of giving.

On 11th December box in our Advent Calendar you can solve the crossword puzzle and find ideas how you can spread joy and gratitude at Christmas, but also throughout the year. The answers will follow on the 20th December box, so don't worry ! Don't forget to upload a screenshot of your task in Padlet, on the 19th good luck!

Unbeknownst to Timmy, the gift held a magic that transcended the ordinary. As the clock struck midnight, the soul of a kind old tortoise named Tinsel infused the package with enchantment. Tinsel, having lived for centuries, brought a timeless wisdom and warmth to the humble present.

The next morning, as Timmy joyfully unwrapped the gift, he felt an inexplicable connection with the wise tortoise. Tinsel's spirit filled the room, spreading love and goodwill. From that day forward, the magic of Christmas lived in the hearts of the townsfolk, a gift from a tortoise whose ancient soul had found a new home.

Children usually receive gifts on New Year's Day rather than on Christmas, and the celebrations often involve special cakes called "Vasilopita," which contains a hidden coin. The person who finds the coin in their slice is considered lucky for the coming year. While the influence of Santa Claus has grown in recent years, especially in urban areas, Saint Basil remains a significant figure in Greek Christmas traditions.

The time passed by, I arrived and I saw that magical decoration all over the offices, Ι felt like I was in a fairy tale where all the elves dacorated every spot that was possible to, with dacorations full of red,white and green colours!

After hours and hours, the time to go back to my home came. I was starving so, on my way back home, I was thinking what I could cook with all the remaining ingredients I had in the cupboards. Pasta wasn't that bad idea so I started making it. While I was making the sauce, I thought that it was a good idea to make it a little spicy so, I started throwing inside it hot chilli and some pepper. At the end, I taste it and it was pretty awful, too much spicy that I felt like even my soul was burning while I was shallowing it. I ate the pasta only with cheese, I hadn't the faith to make sauce again....

It was 12am, I was reading my favourite book, when all of the sudden it started raining heaving to the point that my cat got scared, I let her get to my bed, when after some time we both got asleep.

That was one of the simpliest christmas storys I experienced. My life is full of uncommon things.....

During the festive Christmas season, a gentle wave of joy and excitement fills the air. The aroma of peppermint and cinnamon peppers the atmosphere, creating a magic and cozy feeling. As snowflakes dance gracefully, children's laughter fills the air, just like the joyful chatter of a merry turtle. Christmas brings a magical touch to our souls, reminding us of the importance of love, kindness, and spreading joy to others.

photo from https://www.alamy.com/ded-moroz-and-snegurochka-bringing-presents-to-children-on-the-new-years-eve-moscow-red-square-russia-image369774288.html?imageid=6021A287-8EAC-43FB-89B1-88DD0BD71563&p=34536&pn=1&searchId=1fc6709c3f27e3d1bb3a0b86c19d67b3&searchtype=0

The preparation of this bread can be accompanied by various rules and rituals. A coin is often placed in the dough during mixing, other small objects can also be inserted. At the start of the Christmas dinner, "Česnica" clove is rotated three times anti-clockwise, before broken among family members. A person who finds a coin in a piece of bread will supposedly have exceptional luck in the coming year.

Is Christmas bread made for Christmas in your country? If the answer is yes, post pictures with Christmas bread :)

Because there is no such tradition from time immemorial, as well as in our religion, Neole is not welcome

It all happened on 20th of December. The Christmas was nearby, I could feel a Christmas spirit entering my soul. I was sitting in livingroom, ready to write a letter to the Santa, because that is the most magical thing to do when you are little. I started writing down the words "Dear Santa" when i heard the most strange noise coming from the outside. The sudden wave of sweat ran through my body. My mom went outside to look at what it was. She came back holding a box and a hammer. I was so confused, but she explained that someone must have put the box in front of our door and throw the hammer into our doors. It didn't make any sense. We looked into the box, and there was a little turtle. Real turtle. Me and my mom couldn't understand why would someone do this to this poor animal and we had no choice but to keep her. We went to the shop that evening and bought everything that a little turtle may need to have a wonderful life. We named her Carol and she is still with us till this day.

https://www.argiro.gr/recipe/christopso%C2%B5o/

1. I made a new really strong friendship with a very important person.

2. I learned from my mistakes very important life leassons.

3. I understood how important it is to trust your close ones(familly,friends)

It wasn't just the food that made the Christmas table special. It was the sense of togetherness and tradition that filled the room, creating memories that would last a lifetime. This is something I try to pass to my sons and today.

This tortoise was no ordinary toy. It had a tiny red button on its shell, and when pressed, it would gently wave its little paw, as if greeting you. But the true magic of the tortoise was hidden inside, in the form of a small compartment filled with a special blend of spices, including Jacob's favorite: pepper.

One chilly evening, as snowflakes danced outside, a little girl named Clara wandered into Jacob’s shop. Clara was a kind soul, with a heart as warm as a fireplace and a smile that could light up the darkest winter night. She had been saving her pennies all year to buy a Christmas gift for her mother, who had been unwell.

Jacob watched Clara’s eyes light up as she spotted the wooden tortoise. "How much is this one, Mr. Jacob?" she asked, her voice full of hope.

Jacob smiled gently. "For you, Clara, it’s a gift. Merry Christmas."

Clara’s eyes filled with tears of joy. She hugged Jacob tightly and ran home, the tortoise clutched in her hands. That night, as she placed the tortoise under the Christmas tree, she whispered a heartfelt wish for her mother’s health.

On Christmas morning, Clara and her mother awoke to find the tortoise’s little paw waving at them. Clara’s mother pressed the red button, releasing the fragrant aroma of pepper and spices into the room. A warm, comforting wave of magic seemed to fill the air, wrapping around them like a cozy blanket.

From that day on, Clara’s mother began to recover, her strength returning with each passing day. The tortoise remained a cherished symbol of hope and love, its magic a reminder of the power of a kind soul and the simple joys of Christmas.

And so, in that small village, Jacob’s toy shop continued to bring wonder to children, and the wooden tortoise, with its tiny waving paw and pepper-scented magic, became a beloved tale passed down through generations, a timeless story of the true spirit of Christmas.

"Hello," Clara said, amazed. "You can talk!"

"Indeed," replied Pep. "I am here to bring a special gift to the village."

Clara hurried back and gathered the villagers in the town square that evening. Pep slowly approached the grand Christmas tree and spoke, "Tonight, I bring you a gift not of material wealth, but of something far more precious. Close your eyes and open your hearts."

The villagers felt a warm wave wash over them, filling them with the true spirit of Christmas. When they opened their eyes, the air was filled with the scent of pine and a hint of pepper, evoking memories of love and togetherness.

"The magic of Christmas," said Pep, "is in the love and kindness we share."

With that, Pep disappeared into the forest, leaving the village with a renewed sense of joy. That Christmas, the village celebrated with warmth and love, thanks to the gentle magic brought by the wise tortoise.

Suddenly, a glowing tortoise emerged from the waves. "Your wish is heard," it said, "for the magic of Christmas lies in your pure heart." With a wave of its flipper, the tortoise vanished.

Emily ran home to find her family gathered, their hearts filled with joy. The village felt the true magic of Christmas, carried on the waves and the wish of a pure soul.

Cooking Slovak-style carp is a traditional dish often prepared for Christmas Eve dinner. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you cook it:

### Ingredients:

- 1 whole carp (cleaned and gutted)

- 1 lemon

- 1 onion

- 3-4 cloves of garlic

- 2-3 tablespoons of flour

- 1 egg

- Breadcrumbs

- Salt

- Pepper

- Paprika

- Fresh parsley (optional)

- Oil for frying (sunflower or vegetable oil)

### Instructions:

#### 1. Prepare the Carp

- Clean the carp: Rinse the carp thoroughly under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

- Fillet the carp: Cut the carp into fillets or steaks, about 1-2 inches thick. You can also leave it whole if you prefer.

- Marinate the carp: Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the carp pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and a little paprika. Place the carp in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to marinate.

#### 2. Prepare the Coating

- Prepare the flour: Spread the flour on a plate.

- Beat the egg: In a shallow dish, beat one egg.

- Prepare the breadcrumbs: Spread breadcrumbs on another plate. You can season the breadcrumbs with a bit of salt and pepper if desired.

#### 3. Coat the Carp

- Coat the carp pieces: Dredge each piece of marinated carp in flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.

#### 4. Fry the Carp

- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, pour enough oil to cover the bottom (about 1/4 inch deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it is hot but not smoking.

- Fry the carp: Carefully place the coated carp pieces in the hot oil. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy, and the fish is cooked through.

- Drain the excess oil: Remove the fried carp from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

#### 5. Serve

- Garnish and serve: Transfer the fried carp to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.

### Traditional Accompaniments:

- Potato salad: A classic Slovak potato salad made with potatoes, pickles, onions, carrots, peas, and a dressing of mayonnaise and mustard.

- Cabbage soup (Kapustnica): A hearty soup made with sauerkraut, sausage, mushrooms, and spices, often served as a starter.

- Sauerkraut: A tangy and crunchy side dish that pairs well with the richness of the fried carp.

### Tips:

- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy coating.

- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying. Fry in batches if necessary.

- You can add herbs like dill or thyme to the marinade for extra flavor.

Enjoy your traditional Slovak-style carp!

Snowball Quiz

#### Question 1:

What is the primary fish used in a traditional Slovak Christmas Eve dinner?

#### Answer 1:

Carp

#### Question 2:

When preparing Slovak carp, what citrus fruit is commonly used in the marinating process?

#### Answer 2:

Lemon

#### Question 3:

Which two dry ingredients are used to coat the carp before frying?

#### Answer 3:

Flour and breadcrumbs

#### Question 4:

What additional liquid ingredient is used alongside flour and breadcrumbs to coat the carp?

#### Answer 4:

Beaten egg

#### Question 5:

In what type of oil is the carp traditionally fried?

#### Answer 5:

Sunflower or vegetable oil

#### Question 6:

Name a traditional side dish that is often served with Slovak carp.

#### Answer 6:

Potato salad

#### Question 7:

What type of soup, made with sauerkraut, is typically served as a starter with Slovak carp?

#### Answer 7:

Cabbage soup (Kapustnica)

#### Question 8:

What two herbs can be added to the carp marinade for extra flavor?

#### Answer 8:

Dill or thyme

#### Question 9:

What leafy garnish is often used to decorate the fried carp before serving?

#### Answer 9:

Fresh parsley

#### Question 10:

What is an important tip to remember when frying the carp to ensure a crispy coating?

#### Answer 10:

Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying and do not overcrowd the pan.

These questions and answers build on each other, creating a comprehensive quiz about preparing and serving Slovak carp.

Ingredients:

1. 1000 g (about 2 lb) sauerkraut, drained

2. 400 g (7 oz) smoked sausage or klobasa, sliced

3. 500 g pork meat (pork shoulder)

4. 100 g (3.5 oz) dried mushrooms

5. 1 large onion, finely chopped

6. 3 garlic cloves, minced

7. 1 tsp paprika

8. 1/4 tsp black pepper

9. 1/2 tsp caraway seeds

10. 2 bay leaves

11. 1 tbsp oil or lard

12. 2 liters (about 8 cups) beef or vegetable broth

13. 100 ml (about 1/2 cup) sour cream (optional)

14. Salt, to taste

Directions:

• In a large pot, heat the oil or lard over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

• Adding Sausage

• Add the sliced smoked sausage or klobasa, and roughly chopped pork shoulder to the pot and let it brown lightly. The meat should be “closed” from all sides.

• Spices

• Sprinkle in the paprika, black pepper, caraway seeds, and bay leaves. Stir well to coat the sausage the meat, and onions.

• Sauerkraut and Mushrooms

• Add the drained sauerkraut and chopped mushrooms to the pot. Mix well.

• Broth

• Pour the beef or vegetable broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for about 30-40 minutes.

• Seasoning

• Taste the soup and adjust the salt as needed. Kapustnica should have a pleasant balance of sourness from the sauerkraut and smokiness from the sausage.

• Serving

• Swirl in some sour cream just before serving (optional) for a creamy touch. Serve the soup hot, ideally with a slice of hearty rye bread on the side.

  
  

I was for the first time in Greece.

I made new friends.

1. My favorite writer just finished new series!

2. I learned how to draw faces

3. I got a little betta fish as a b-day gift

- 10-12 sausages

- 5 kg pork meat for sausages, ground with a coarse grinder suitable for sausages

- 1 pork intestine (about 1 kg)

- 1,500 g leeks, white part coarsely chopped in a food processor (I only use 150 g because it upsets our stomach)

- 100 g coarse salt

- 10 g ground black pepper

- 25 g cinnamon

- 10 g cloves

- Zest of 2 large oranges

- 5 g allspice (optional)

- 5 g sweet paprika (optional)

- 5 g oregano (optional)

- 5 g crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Wash the intestines thoroughly with plenty of running water, cut them to the desired length, and soak them in water and vinegar for a while.

2. Add the spices to the meat and mix all the ingredients very well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. Let the mixture "rest" and marinate for 8-14 hours (usually overnight).

3. The next day, knead the mixture again for 2-3 minutes. Take a small amount and shape it into a meatball. Cook it in a pan or fry it in a bit of oil to test if the seasoning is to your liking and adjust if needed.

4. Using a sausage stuffing machine, fill the sausages one by one and tie the ends with string.

5. Hang the sausages in a cool, well-ventilated place (an empty room in the house or in the storage). Leave them there for 10-15 days until they dry out and start to wrinkle. Alternatively, store them in the freezer, wrapped individually in plastic wrap or in nylon bags.