Posts

Showing posts from January 17, 2011

The Great History and Stories behind Valentines Day!

Image
Valentine's Day History There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine's Day. Some experts state that it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity. He died on February 14, 269 A.D., the same day that had been devoted to love lotteries. Legend also says that St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer's daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it "From Your Valentine". Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Claudius then had Valentine jailed for defying him. In 496 A.D. Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honor St. Valentine. Gradually, February 14 became the date for exchanging love messages and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. The date was marked by sending poems and simple gifts such as flowers. There was often a social gathering or a ball. In the United States, Miss Esther Howlan...

Valentines Day Facts, Folklore, Trivia

Image
Did you know that nearly 150 million cards are exchanged each Valentine's Day? Or that more than 40,000 American are employed at chocolate companies? Explore these and dozens more Valentine's Day facts about cards, chocolate, flowers and candy, the hallmarks of St. Valentine's Day. Roses are red, violets are blue…”  How many ways are there to end that rhyme?  (Not sure, but if you know the answer, we can add it to our list of fun facts below.)  Impress your honey on Valentine’s Day with your knowledge of all things floral. Roses are valued for their romantic symbolism but their blooms are also edible.  No, they don’t taste like chicken.  Rather like the flavors of green apples and strawberries. The rose family also includes pears, apples, cherries, plums, peaches, apricots, and almonds. The rose is named as the favorite flower of 85% of Americans. George Washington bred roses at his home.  Apparently, pruning roses came naturally to him (what with all...