by Solveig, age 8 from Bergen, Norway, asks Santa about seeing a parent dressed as him, Bergen’s seven mountains, and Norway’s julenisse folklore.
Dear Santa, my name is Solveig, and I am eight years old. I live in Bergen, Norway, where my bestefar says our whole city is surrounded by seven tall mountains, one on almost every side.
Dear Solveig, seven mountains standing guard is one of the most striking sights on my entire route, your bestefar picked a truly majestic hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Did I see Mommy kissing Santa? My little brother swears he saw something like that at our neighbor’s party and got confused.
Sometimes at parties, a friend or family member dresses up as me for fun, Solveig, so what your little brother saw was probably just a costume and a cheerful hug hello. There is no need to worry, that kind of playful dress-up happens quite often this time of year.
My bestefar says Bergen is often called the gateway to Norway’s fjords. Is that true?
It is true, Solveig, Bergen serves as a starting point for exploring Norway’s dramatic fjords, deep blue waterways cutting through steep mountains. I always enjoy that stunning scenery on my way to your rooftop.
My bestefar says Norwegian folklore includes a little Christmas gnome called a julenisse who watches over the farm. Is that true?
It is true, Solveig, the julenisse is a beloved figure in Norwegian folklore, a small, watchful gnome said to protect farms and families, especially around Christmas. Old traditions like that add a wonderful bit of extra magic to the season.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Solveig Nilsen
Bergen, Norway
P.S. Will you tell my little brother it was probably just a costume?
Already explained, Solveig, mystery solved and worries put to rest.
