The Tomte is a Scandinavian household spirit. If treated correctly a Tomte will adopt a farmer's home and protect it from misfortune, if offended he will seek vengeance with elaborate, devastating pranks, and violent attacks on people and livestock. Tomtes are shapeshifters and can appear in any number of guises, the most common being a small old man ranging from a few inches to a few feet in height. They traditionally take up residence in the space beneath the floorboards. One who spilled liquid in the house was advised to shout a warning to the Tomte living below.
In modern Sweden, the Tomte has been associated with Christmas, a character similar to Santa Claus.
Speaking of tomtar...My tomtar makes people laugh! See them at http://www.hemskapat.se. under övrigt! Welcome/Agneta
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