Krampus vs. Dinosaur
I never thought of the Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa holidays as being associated with what many would consider scary images, but this week’s walks around Alameda proved otherwise. The yard display titled “Merry Krampus,” with some devilish looking characters, caught my eye as I was walking on Sherman Street near Buena Vista Avenue. Krampus is a horned anthropomorphic figure who, in the Central and Eastern Alpine folkloric tradition, is said to accompany Saint Nicholas on visits to children during the night of December 5, known as Krampus Night. In a classic outdated carrot-and-stick technique of controlling childhood behavior, Saint Nicholas would reward well-behaved children with small gifts, while Krampus punished badly behaved ones with birch rods. Yikes!
In a seasonal nod to Halloween, the folks who live on Elm Street repurposed their skeletons and pumpkins to celebrate the holiday.
Dinosaurs were well-represented in yard displays this year. These pictures were just a few that I saw. I will circle back to a few more yards that I know have more.
Under the heading of assorted seasonal images, the antlers on the car, Santa’s mailbox, and many front door coverings could be found.
Tow Mater and Lightning McQueen made their annual appearance in the front yard of this house on Central Avenue.
I found what I think is the biggest snowman on the island further down Central Avenue.
With all the inflatables representing the season, I wanted to be sure to include a few images of the more traditional decorations. This week, I have included a classic Victorian-era house with white lights adorning the architectural elements, a simple red, white, and green light house with poinsettias framing the front door, and a big old wreath with ornaments and bows on the bay window.
In keeping with one of the main themes of the season, a big howl to Shay Kelley whose Eagle Scout project is to collaborate with Building Futures to make Move-In kits for families experiencing homelessness and domestic violence. Check out the fundraiser and consider helping Shay complete this project.
Next Sunday’s report will feature Alameda’s Christmas Tree Lane, my friend Tucker’s yard, South Shore Shopping Center, Courageous Court, and of course Char’s amazing front yard.
Oh! There may be a special report coming out soon covering the appearance of Santa Paws at the FAAS shelter on Christmas morning.
Rain is in the forecast for the week leading up to the 25th. Be sure to walk and drive with caution, especially at night.
Still thinking about those salmon and sweet potato treats.
Mouf, Roving Reporter
Bear’s-Eye View of Alameda
Mouf and his human companion can be reached via [email protected]. Their stories are collected at AlamedaPost.com/Jeff-Cambra/. All photos and videos by Jeff Cambra.
