Hanging stockings out comes from the Dutch custom of leaving shoes packed with food for St Nicholas’s donkeys. He would leave small gifts in return.
Monthly Archives: December 2023
Guy Lafleur
Guy Lafleur
Profession: NHL Legend
Nationality:
Biography: First player in the NHL to score 50 goals and 100 points in six straight seasons.
Lafleur played 17 seasons, most of which for the Montreal Canadiens, and won five Stanley Cups.
Born: September 20, 1951
Birthplace:Thurso, Quebec, Canada
Died: April 22, 2022 (aged 70)
Cause of Death: Lung cancer
Historical Events
- 1976-05-16 Stanley Cup Final, The Spectrum, Philadelphia, PA: Guy Lafleur and Pete Mahovlich each have a goal and 2 assists as Montreal Canadiens beat Philadelphia Flyers, 5-3 for a 4 games series sweep
- 1980-04-02 Montreal right wing Guy Lafleur scores twice to become the first player in NHL history to record 6 straight 50-goal seasons, as the Canadiens beat the Red Wings, 7-2 at Detroit
- 1983-12-20 Guy Lafleur, Montreal Canadiens, becomes 10th NHLer to score 500 goals
- 1984-11-26 After 518 goals & 14 years with Montreal Canadiens, Guy LaFleur retires abruptly
- 1988-08-19 NY Rangers sign ex-Canadien great Guy LaFleur out of retirement
- 1988-09-07 Guy Lafleur, Tony Esposito & Brad Park inducted in NHL Hall of Fame
Here are some care tips for Poinsettias:
- Light: Poinsettias prefer bright, indirect light. Place them near a sunny window where they can get plenty of indirect sunlight. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight for extended periods as it may damage the leaves.
- Temperature: Poinsettias thrive in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. Keep them away from drafts and sudden temperature changes.
- Watering: Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can cause root rot.
- Humidity: Poinsettias prefer higher humidity levels. You can increase humidity by placing a tray filled with pebbles and water beneath the plant (just ensure the pot is not sitting in the water) or by using a humidifier.
- Fertilizing: During the growing season (spring to early fall), you can feed your Poinsettia with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the correct dosage and frequency.
- Pruning: To encourage a bushy, compact growth, you can prune your Poinsettia in late winter or early spring. Cut back the stems to about 4-6 inches from the soil. You can also pinch off new growth to promote a fuller plant.
- Care after blooming: After the holiday season, Poinsettias might start to drop their leaves. You can try to keep them going by providing proper care: maintain regular watering, proper light, and temperature. Some people prune them back severely in spring and continue caring for them as usual.
- Pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like whiteflies, aphids, or spider mites. If you notice any infestations, treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or another appropriate treatment. Also, ensure good airflow around the plant to prevent fungal diseases.
Remember, Poinsettias are sensitive to changes in their environment. Providing consistent care and avoiding drastic changes in temperature, light, or watering will help keep your Poinsettia healthy and vibrant.
Advent Day One
Christmas is a contraction of “Christ’s Mass,” which is derived from the Middle English Cristemasse, which in turn comes from the Old English Cristesmæsse, a phrase first recorded waa-aay back in 1038.
