I’ve traveled the world as a reporter for a number of TV stations in various cities over 20 years. I had not heard about “The Pooping Long” until I watched a recent broadcast of Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations”!
What you say… “The Pooping Log”? Yes I tell you I’m not kidding ( you couldn’t make this up if you tried!. Apparently, in Catalonia spain, beginning with the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th your supposed to give “Tió de Nadal” Spanish for Christmas Log (see picture) a little bit to “eat” every night. Oh and don’t forget to cover him with little blanket so that he will not be cold at night.
Now fast forward several weeks to Christmas day when you put the rear end of the log partly into the fireplace and order the log to … well…er…a..poop on the fire. Really would I kid you about this…. No! To make this even better you’re supposed to beats the log him with sticks, while singing various songs of Tió de Nadal. The tradition says the log leaves candies, nuts and other treats.
So this Christmas, while you’re sitting around the tree opening presents, think about the pooping log… a real to goodness tradition for our friends in Catalonia Spain.
Bob Sokoler is a former Anchor/Reporter turned Louisville Realtor 7 years ago, and co-owner of The Medley Sokoler Team in Louisville Kentucky. You can learn more about Bob, his Team by clicking Louisville Real Estate.