by Jackie Layton
There are so many mysteries and secrets during December, but let’s begin with the Christmas tree pickle.
On Christmas morning, the first person to find the Christmas pickle ornament gets a reward. It can be as simple as being the first person to open a gift. My dad’s family is from Germany, and we believe the tradition began there. But there are many theories.
Berrien Springs, Michigan is known as the Christmas Pickle Capital of the World, and they hold an annual pickle festival the first part of December.
So, the Christmas pickle is two mysteries. Where is it on the tree, and where did it originate.
As I researched the history, I began to think of a cozy mystery story involving the Christmas pickle. Most people write about cookies, cakes, and other delicious treats, and I wonder how a pickle story would be received.
Gifts are another fun mystery during the holidays. I’m curious, as a child did you ever try to find out what you were getting ahead of time? I did, and one of my sons did, but I won’t throw him under the bus. As an adult, does the suspense get to you? Or do you savor the wait?
What about books? Have you ever skipped ahead to find out who the killer is? That’s one thing I can never do. I love the process. When I was in high school, I took speed reading, but I never got any faster. My teacher told me some people just love to read so much that they can’t speed up the process.
Another Christmas mystery is the Grinch. Why did he hate Christmas? Was it because his heart was too small, or is there another reason.
The last Christmas tradition comes from Iceland. I don’t know how it started, but I love this idea. On Christmas Eve, Icelandic families and friends exchange books. They don’t even need to be new books, but loved books. They spend a quiet evening reading and eating sweets. Doesn’t this sound like a wonderful tradition?
However you celebrate the holidays, I hope you enjoy the time with family, friends, and a good book.
ABOUT JACKIE LAYTON
Jackie Layton is the author of cozy mysteries with Spunky Southern Sleuths. Her stories are set in Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina. She lives on the coast of South Carolina, where she enjoys walks on the beach and golf cart rides around the marsh. Reading, gardening, and traveling are some of her favorite hobbies.
Christmas is one of her favorite times of the year because she gets to celebrate the holiday with family.
