As I look at the calendar and notice how quickly December is passing already, I find myself scrambling to complete Christmas cards, purchase gifts, make travel and event plans & wonder where to squeeze in the holiday baking.
Do suffer from holiday fatigue, or find yourself energized by the decorating and planning? I marvel at a friend that puts up 8 Christmas trees & colleague that puts up 14. I feel victorious after decorating my one and only tree.
Wherever you find yourself in this holiday season, I thought you might enjoy some December fun facts:
December 9 – Christmas Card Day: Christmas cards reached the USA in the 1840s, close to the same time the first ones were being printed in Britain. However, the expenses involved in their production rendered them a stagnant practice until 1875 when German printer Louis Prang started mass-producing the cards, making them affordable. It wasn’t until the Hall brothers opened Hallmark, however, in the early 20th century that the practice really took off in the U.S.
December 12 – Poinsettia Day: The poinsettia is indigenous to Mexico and Central America and was was first described by Europeans in 1834. It is particularly well known for its red and green foliage and is widely used in Christmas floral displays. It derives its common English name from Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first United States Minister to Mexico, who is credited with introducing the plant to the US in the 1820s.
December 17 – Ugly Christmas Sweater Day: Be sure to wear your favorite throwback Christmas sweater and have fun with colleagues. Or better yet, host a theme party with friends with a contest for the “ugliest sweater”.
December 21 – Blue Christmas Day: “Blue Christmas” comes on the longest day of the year and acknowledges the grief that many feel in this season. It is a time to honor loved ones we have lost or those who are experiencing grief.