Do you ever wonder how traditions began? On a cold, dark night, long, long ago…

…with the snow deep in the woods and the air so crisp it made your breath hurt, the shelter was not cozy, and a fire was desperately needed to ward off the deep cold.

But though wood was piled in plenty, kindling was scarce, and who wanted to go back out into the night to make big pieces smaller?

Not someone with holes in their socks, who instead opted for a shortcut.

And so the fire did blaze, hot and welcome. And Santa Claus did bring one new socks, without holes. They are quite cozy for now, and enjoying the long process toward the next big celebration.

A Festive Beringian Hosiery Burning