Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, To You!
Here is Day 1 and Day 2 of the Tomte’ stories I write on Facebook each year.
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Keep Shining Brightly! PEACE, LOVE & JOY,
Linda
The Tomte, Day 2; Little Women.
There aren't alot of images of Tomte, Nisse, or Gnome women. It seems they are very traditional in their approach to life, as Tomte in general live in alignment with all of nature. They do the work they believe they are here to do, and also bring balance by enjoying their lives as well.
There surely have been renegade Tomte women, however, those would be singular stories, not easy to uncover.
For the most part however, this is where we find the Tomte woman. It is written that all Tomte desire and plan to meet the right partner and join in marriage. They build a family, raise the children to be helpful, self-sufficient and loving. So parenting and motherhood are taken very seriously. Tomte have twin children or two at a time.
They are all masters at animal husbandry, animal caretaking, and herbology, as animal care is a large part of their life mission.
For the most part the lady Tomte is a happy life partner who raises and educates the children, helps with the domestic animals, cares for the home and family, and develops tinctures, infusions, teas, and medicinals for the wellness of her family. She also cares for the needy and ill in her community. The Tomte woman is full of joy and compassion. She sings frequently throughout the day and dances at any opportunity.
Here are some images of the Tomte woman at work.
The artist's are named in the order the images are listed. If I uncover other information about the little ladies I will pass it along here. MOST Images of women Tomte have been painted by one artist, Rien Poortvliet. (Netherlands; 1932-1995) I will just write R.P. so you know that is his work. However, you will notice his style throughout.
ARTISTS:
1.Phoebe Wahl, (U.S. contemporary artist)
2. R.P. Tomte Women clothing
3. R. P. Singing to the twins
4. R. P. Dancing every chance they get!
5. R.P. The Herbalist
6. R.P. After the dance/ aka Serious Knuffeling
I hope the joy of the Tomte' is gifted to you today. <3
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Tomte' #1 of 19 days til Christmas.
Leading up to Yule, the Winter Solstice and Christmas is an especially busy time for the Tomte. Each of them have a property, home, and animals they are born to or assigned to. Their ancestral roots go long on the same properties and families.
This time of year there is much preparation for the deepest, longest, coldest part of winter that is just around the corner. However, the Tomte know how to make a space, create a balance between work and play. They travel each week by cross country skiing, to socialize with their circle of friends and family. This is the most common source of travel, though a pack sled led by woodland animals is also common for transporting goods.
Here you see them taking a break to socialize, play sparring games, drink a cup of hot Grog, and bring joy into their lives with their community. Clearly this gathering is not far from the village since someone's children has followed them.
The artist is, Jenny Nystrom. 1854-1946 / Stockholm, Sweden.
I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS SERIES. If you like this please take a minute to post in remarks. I would love your feedback or any experience you have with Gnomes, the Tomte, or Nisse.
Keep watching your inbox for the rest of this series through Christmas Day.
PEACE, LOVE & MUCH JOY,
Linda