Christmas Legends and Ornament Stories

Madelon, the little shepherd girl, was tending her father's sheep on a cold and wintry night. It was very lonely in the hills, especially when the flock was sleeping. Madelon spent much time looking into the night sky, and making song. On this one particular night she heard camel bells as the animals climbed the mountainous and snow covered paths toward her. The Wise Men and other shepherds passed her with their gifts for the Christ Child. The Wise Men carried gold, frankincense and myrrh. The shepherds bore fruits, honey and nuts.

Madelon, upon hearing where they were going, began to cry as she had nothing to give to the Baby. An Angel seeing her tears brushed away the snow revealing a most beautiful white flower tipped with pink - The Christmas Rose - which Madelon lovingly gave to the Holy Infant, who smiled at her.

While there are numerous other legends of length, the magic and traditions of Christmas can be found in micro stories also. The following examples come from Old World Christmas, a premium source for fine German glass ornaments. An Old World ornament can be identified by a classic brass hanging star at its top:

1. The Chimney Sweep Ornament

During cold weather the chimney sweep, dressed in his traditional black clothing and high top hat, was always kept quite busy. German folklore tells us that the chimney sweep brought good luck to any person whom he happened to touch, so his presence was always desired at Christmas time, in particular.

2. The Rabbit Ornament

The rabbit is a legendary figure during Christmas as well as at Easter, though not usually associated with the winter holy day. At Christmas the rabbit represents man and the renewal of man's faith in Christ.

3. The Carrot Ornament

An old world ornament, the carrot, has gained popularity in today's blown glass ornaments. Long, long ago the carrot ornament was much loved in Germany as a traditional gift for a bride. It was thought that it would bring good luck to the new bride's kitchen. The original molds for the carrot ornament were lost during the division of Germany following World War II. Fortunately, for collectors and lovers of unusual ornaments, the original molds were found after Germany's reunification.

4. The Glass Bird's Nest Ornament

Bird's nest ornaments are symbols of good luck. Legend has it that prosperity will come to any home that finds a bird's

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