A Wreath for St. Nicholas Day
St. Nicholas day is a holiday for those with a sweet tooth. Beautiful cookie molds are used for the famous springerle, or anise cake and baked goods abound. Traditionally, yellow blossoms, such as yarrow or tansy, representing the famous bags of gold that this . . . saint distributed to the poor, were symbolic of the holiday and Dutch children would find gold pieces in their shoes [in the] morning.
 Photos: George Gregory Wieser from A Year in Wreaths |  |
A St. Nicholas wreath may be made with evergreens or artemisia as a base. Sweet Annie is an appropriate choice, because its gold color is symbolic of the day. You can find cookie molds in a variety of interesting shapes, which make fine decorations for this wreath. To finish, wire bunches of cinnamon sticks and nutmeg, or other spices commonly used to flavor holiday treats.
