A Valentine From Chaucer
Saint Valentine was his own man who ended up with a worldwide holiday devoted to his teachings. But he had help from a 14th century poet who believed deeply in the idea of courtly love.
Saint Valentine was his own man who ended up with a worldwide holiday devoted to his teachings. But he had help from a 14th century poet who believed deeply in the idea of courtly love.
Today is Candlemas, a day to celebrate the coming of Spring with groundhogs, candles, and gingerbread scones.
Tonight begins the Feast Day for St. Brigid, one of the patron saints of Ireland. Her story is one of courage and determination because she defied the kings and laws of her day.
We’re in the darkest days of winter, so it’s time for a fairytale that captures the essence of this happy/sad season–a story known as The Snow Maiden.
Since we’re already well into the month of January, I thought I’d share some of my late New Year’s Day traditions that I never do on time.
Today is the Epiphany, the last of the 12 Days of Christmas. To celebrate, here’s a brief history of the day’s meaning and a Galette de Roi cake recipe that is worthy of a king–or three!
Did you know that the famous Christmas Carol “God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen” once an an alternative meaning? Everything changed due to a simple grammatical mistake.
Tonight the Winter Solstice begins, marking the longest night of the year. It’s a night that people, for centuries, have celebrated with hope in their hearts that spring will come sooner rather than later. And, to celebrate, we’re cleaning the house and making a simmer pot.
Candy canes are not just sweet holiday treats. They have an old and interesting backstory that continues to this day.
Today begins the first of three Ember Days known as the Winter Embertide. It’s a time of waiting, reflecting, and giving thanks. It’s also a time of preparation for the joyous season ahead. And it comes with its own onion tart!
A short tale about the legend of evergreen trees, and their kindness and generosity one Christmas Eve a long, long time ago.
Today is the feast day of St. Nicholas, the man who would become Santa Claus. But before he was a compassionate gift giver, he was a bishop whose powerful right hook made him famous in 325 AD. And there’s also a cookie recipe in his honor!